Squire Parsons Newton WV Death and Obituary – The Southern Gospel community is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved voices, Squire Parsons, who passed away at the age of 77. Revered for his heartfelt songwriting, warm baritone voice, and lifelong commitment to ministry, Parsons leaves behind a legacy that spans decades and has touched countless lives through his music and faith.
Born Squire Enos Parsons, Jr. on April 4, 1948, in West Virginia, he was raised in a home steeped in both faith and music. His journey into professional Gospel music began in 1969 when he joined the Calvarymen Quartet. However, it was in 1975 that his career took a defining turn when he became the baritone vocalist for the Kingsmen Quartet, one of the most respected groups in Southern Gospel music.
During his tenure with the Kingsmen, Parsons helped shape the group’s sound and was part of numerous beloved recordings, including “It Made News In Heaven,” “Hello Mama,” and “Look For Me At Jesus’ Feet.” His powerful, emotive delivery and spiritual depth quickly made him a fan favorite.
In 1979, Squire Parsons transitioned into a solo ministry, a move that allowed him to focus more intently on songwriting and preaching. That same year, he was ordained as a minister at Trinity Baptist Church in Asheville, North Carolina, which became his spiritual home for the rest of his life. His solo career produced some of the most enduring songs in Southern Gospel history, most notably “Sweet Beulah Land,” a stirring anthem of heavenly hope that remains one of the genre’s most recognized pieces.
Other signature songs like “He Came To Me,” “The Greatest Of All Miracles,” and “I Call It Home” reflect the deep spiritual messages that characterized his work. Throughout the 1980s and beyond, he led musical groups such as Squire Parsons & Redeemed and The Squire Parsons Trio, further spreading his musical vision and ministry.
His contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including multiple Singing News Fan Awards such as Favorite Baritone, Favorite Male Singer, and an impressive five-time honor as Favorite Songwriter. “Sweet Beulah Land” earned the title of Song of the Year in 1981, cementing its place as a Southern Gospel classic. He was also inducted into both the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame and the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Though he stepped back from full-time touring in 2019 due to health issues, Parsons continued to minister and sing locally at Trinity Baptist Church. Even in his final years, his faith and love for Gospel music remained strong.
As friends, fans, and fellow believers reflect on the life of Squire Parsons, there is a profound sense of gratitude for a man whose voice, songs, and testimony pointed others to Christ. Funeral arrangements are pending, and the Parsons family has asked for continued prayers during this time of loss.
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