The Southern Gospel Music community is mourning the passing of beloved singer, songwriter, and minister Squire Parsons, who died at the age of 77. Known for his warm baritone voice and deeply moving lyrics, Mr. Parsons left an indelible mark on Christian music and the countless lives he touched through his songs and ministry.
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Born on April 4, 1948, Squire Enos Parsons, Jr. grew up surrounded by faith and music in West Virginia. In 1969, he took his first major step into professional Gospel music when he joined the Calvarymen Quartet.
His talent quickly earned attention, and by 1975, he was invited to join one of the premier groups in Southern Gospel—the Kingsmen Quartet. As the group’s baritone vocalist, Mr. Parsons contributed to an iconic era in their history, helping to shape their sound and deliver powerful performances that resonated with audiences across the country.
During his time with the Kingsmen, Squire Parsons lent his voice to many songs that would become cherished classics. Among them were “It Made News In Heaven,” “Hello Mama,” “The Lovely Name Of Jesus,” “I’ve Got A Reservation,” “Master Of The Sea,” and the deeply personal and worshipful “Look For Me At Jesus’ Feet.” His heartfelt delivery and unmistakable tone made him a favorite among Gospel music fans and peers alike.
In 1979, Mr. Parsons stepped away from the Kingsmen to focus on a solo ministry that allowed him to further develop his songwriting and preaching. That same year, he was ordained as a minister at his home church, Trinity Baptist Church in Asheville, North Carolina. It was during this season of his life that Squire Parsons shared some of his most enduring and beloved works.
“Sweet Beulah Land,” perhaps his signature song, touched hearts with its vivid imagery of heaven. Other notable compositions include “He Came To Me,” “The Broken Rose,” “The Greatest Of All Miracles,” “I Sing Because,” and “I Call It Home.” His lyrics often conveyed messages of grace, salvation, and the hope of eternity, striking a chord with believers across denominational lines.
Beyond his solo work, Mr. Parsons also formed several groups that carried his musical vision. From 1984 to 1991, he led Squire Parsons & Redeemed, and later, The Squire Parsons Trio, active from 1995 to 2009.
In 1992, fans were treated to a special lineup called The Squire Parsons Quartet, which featured respected vocalists such as Ernie Phillips, Arthur Rice, and Joe Fowler, alongside Mr. Parsons himself.
Throughout his remarkable career, Mr. Parsons received many accolades. Readers of Singing News Magazine honored him with multiple fan awards, including Favorite Baritone (1986–1987), Favorite Male Singer (1988), and an impressive five-time run as Favorite Songwriter (1986, 1992–1995).
His most famous song, “Sweet Beulah Land,” won Song of the Year in 1981. His legacy was formally recognized with his induction into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2000 (as a former member of The Kingsmen) and again in 2008 when he was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame as a solo artist.
Even after stepping back from full-time touring in 2019 due to health challenges, Mr. Parsons continued to sing and minister in his home community of Asheville. Regularly participating in services and revivals at Trinity Baptist Church, he remained a faithful witness to the gospel until the end of his life.
As the Gospel community reflects on his extraordinary legacy, many are offering prayers and gratitude for a man who faithfully used his gifts to lift others and point them to Christ. Funeral arrangements are currently pending, and the Parsons family appreciates your continued prayers during this difficult time.