The Christian music community and longtime fans of Sixpence None the Richer are mourning the loss of bassist Justin Cary, who died June 18 after suffering a stroke. He was 50.

Cary, a member of the Grammy-nominated band for nearly three decades, passed away with his wife, Linda, by his side, according to an update posted to a GoFundMe campaign created to support the family during his hospitalization.

“Justin passed peacefully this morning, and Linda was next to him,” the statement read. “Please continue to pray and give strength during this very difficult time.”

The fundraiser revealed that Cary suffered a serious stroke the previous week and was being treated at Albany Medical Center in New York. During his hospitalization, he underwent two surgeries and remained in intensive care on a respirator. In one update, supporters shared that Linda spent her days at his bedside reading to him and reminding him how deeply he was loved.

Before Cary’s passing, lead singer Leigh Nash asked fans to join the band in prayer.

“Our brother of 30 years (and bassist), Justin, had a stroke Thursday night,” Nash wrote on Instagram. “We love our brother so so much. Words don’t cover it. I know so many out there love him, too.”

She went on to praise his character, professionalism, humor, and resilience, describing him as “tough as an old boot.”

Following his death, Nash shared a heartfelt tribute reflecting on their decades of friendship and music together.

“‘We sure had a great time’ is an understatement. Thank you, Justin,” she wrote. “We love you forever. Please keep his dear Linda close to your hearts. She is our family. There’s never been anybody like Justin.”

Guitarist and co-founder Matt Slocum echoed those sentiments, calling Cary not only a bandmate but a brother and close friend.

“We are completely heartbroken,” Slocum said. “The depth of our grief proves the depth of our love for this wonderful man who was our bandmate, brother-in-arms, and friend for 30 years.”

He noted that the band had recently enjoyed a resurgence, including international tours and new recordings, and had hoped for many more years together.

“Please raise a glass with us to our dear friend and fantastic musician, Justin Cary,” Slocum said. “Cheers, amigo, see you on the other side.”

Formed in 1992, Sixpence None the Richer drew its name from C.S. Lewis’ classic Christian work Mere Christianity. The group achieved worldwide fame with its 1997 self-titled album, which included the hit song “Kiss Me.” The track climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped earn the band a Grammy nomination. The group also received a Grammy nomination in the rock or rap gospel category in 1999.

Cary joined Sixpence None the Richer in 1997 during the band’s breakthrough year and became a key part of its sound and success. Beyond the band, he worked with numerous artists, including Jennifer Knapp, Counting Crows, and Lee Brice.

On his personal website, Cary reflected on his career and expressed gratitude for the opportunities music had given him.

“As a member of Sixpence None the Richer, I have been fortunate to ride a wave of experience that taught me a lot about the music industry,” he wrote. “I’m proud of the work I’ve done with Sixpence and continue to work with the band on new recordings and occasional performances.”

As tributes continue to pour in, Cary is being remembered not only as a gifted musician but as a beloved husband, friend, and bandmate whose impact extended far beyond the stage.