Hey all... the WVMHoF's 10th induction ceremony was held April 12... the event is now available to view on youtube. We're definitely biased - but it was a pretty great show! (fb)

Sadly, Squire Parsons Jr., a native of West Virginia and a revered songwriter and southern gospel baritone, died May 5 at the age of 77. Parsons was born in Newton (Roane County) in 1948. He earned a bachelor of science degree in music from West Virginia Institute of Technology in Montgomery where he studied piano and bassoon. After graduating, he taught at Hannan High School in Mason County and served as music director of various churches. He began singing professionally in 1969 when he joined the Calvarymen Quartet. He went on to sing with The Kingsmen, where he famously sang baritone. He is known for writing several songs, including “Sweet Beulah Land,” “He Came To Me,” “The Broken Rose,” “The Greatest Of All Miracles,” “I’m Not Giving Up,” “I Sing Because” and “I Call It Home.” Parsons also worked with Squire Parsons & Redeemed (1984–1991) and The Squire Parsons Trio (1995–2009). He appeared on a Billy Graham Crusade in Arkansas and performed with the Gaither Homecoming Choir. In 1999, he received an honorary doctorate from the WVIT. He was inducted into the Gospel Music Association’s Hall of Fame in 2000 as a former member of The Kingsmen and was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2008. Parsons retired from traveling in 2019. (fb)