Southern Gospel Music Mourns the Loss of Beloved Singer-Songwriter Squire Parsons
The Southern Gospel music community is grieving the loss of one of its most beloved voices and prolific songwriters, Squire Parsons, who passed away at the age of 77. Known for his deep spiritual conviction, soul-stirring lyrics, and unmistakable baritone voice, Mr. Parsons left an indelible mark on gospel music through decades of ministry and music.
Born on April 4, 1948, in the heart of Appalachia, Squire Enos Parsons, Jr. grew up immersed in Christian faith and music. From a young age, his life was shaped by a love for hymns and Southern Gospel melodies, which would become the foundation for a lifelong ministry of song. In 1969, he began his professional music career by joining West Virginia’s Calvarymen Quartet. This marked the beginning of a journey that would ultimately touch millions of lives across the world.
By 1975, Mr. Parsons had accepted a new opportunity that would place him firmly on the map of gospel music: he joined The Kingsmen Quartet, one of the most respected and influential groups in Southern Gospel history. As the baritone vocalist, his voice became a defining feature of many of the group’s most cherished recordings. Classics like “It Made News In Heaven,” “Hello Mama,” “Master Of The Sea,” “Look For Me At Jesus’ Feet,” and “I’ve Got A Reservation” still echo in churches, concerts, and hearts today. His time with The Kingsmen not only honed his musical gifts but also set the stage for a powerful solo ministry that would soon follow.
In 1979, Mr. Parsons felt the call to pursue a solo path, focusing more intentionally on songwriting and ministry. That same year, he was ordained as a minister at his home church, Trinity Baptist Church in Asheville, North Carolina. It was during this time that he wrote and released many of the songs for which he is best known, including the anthemic “Sweet Beulah Land,” which was voted Song of the Year by Singing News Magazine in 1981 and remains a treasured piece in the Southern Gospel repertoire. Other heartfelt compositions such as “He Came To Me,” “The Broken Rose,” “I’m Not Giving Up,” “I Sing Because,” “The Greatest Of All Miracles,” and “I Call It Home” reflect his deep personal faith and the hope of eternity that was central to his message.
Mr. Parsons didn’t limit his contributions to solo work. In 1984, he founded the group Squire Parsons & Redeemed, which ministered until 1991. Later, he led The Squire Parsons Trio (1995–2009), bringing his distinct style and spiritual passion to new generations of listeners. A brief but memorable ensemble, The Squire Parsons Quartet, also performed selectively in 1992 with talents like Ernie Phillips, Arthur Rice, and Joe Fowler sharing the stage.
Throughout his celebrated career, Mr. Parsons received numerous accolades that reflected both his talent and his impact on the genre. He was honored by the readers of Singing News Magazine multiple times: Favorite Baritone (1986–1987), Favorite Male Singer (1988), and Favorite Songwriter (1986, 1992, 1993, 1994, and 1995). In 2000, he was inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame as a member of The Kingsmen, and in 2008, he was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame—both fitting tributes to his legacy.
Even after health concerns led him to retire from full-time travel in 2019, Mr. Parsons never truly stopped ministering. He continued to sing and encourage others during services and revivals at Trinity Baptist Church, offering his signature voice and testimony in spite of mounting health challenges. Those who were fortunate enough to hear him in his final years were witnesses to a faith that endured through trials and a voice that refused to be silenced.
The news of his passing has sent ripples of sorrow through the gospel music community and beyond. Tributes have poured in from artists, fans, churches, and organizations who credit Mr. Parsons for shaping their spiritual journeys and musical callings. Though his voice has been stilled here on Earth, his songs will continue to testify to the faith, hope, and glory of God for generations to come.
Funeral arrangements are pending at this time. The Parsons family has expressed deep gratitude for the prayers and support extended during this time of grief.
As the words of his most famous song remind us:
“Sweet Beulah Land, I’m longing for you,
And someday on thee I’ll stand…”
Squire Parsons has finally arrived at that land he sang of so often. He has gone home.