Remembering Roy Pauley

Roy Pauley died early this morning, August 12, 2023, at the age of 74 after fighting a battle with cancer. I have known Roy's association with Gospel Music for years, having sung with Hovie Lister and the Statesmen Quartet for a while, and as contributing editor of the Singing News magazine for decades. Always enjoyed reading his column which focused on the "gospel music history" of many of the great legends of gospel music, which he did so well. Roy was also known for his artistic talents, creating many beautiful renderings of many well-known personalities.

Had the rare opportunity to meet Roy and his wife Amy when I was invited by the Weatherfords, Lily Fern and Steve, to attend a Gaither

video "homecoming taping" at the Bill Gaither studios in Indiana. It was an experience I will never forget. Following one of the sessions at the studio, Lily Fern, Steve, Roy, Amy and I sat in the lobby of the hotel and told stories and the singers, excluding me, sang some of the great music of the past and Roy sang in the style of the "Big Chief," which he had spot on and Steve sang as "Jake Hess" would have sounded. It was so much fun to listen to, especially from my vantage as a guest. Later, we actually ran into the one and only Jake Hess. As they say, my cup overflowed with appreciation of not only who they were but the vast history of who I had the opportunity to be with in person. Roy, you will be missed, and I thank you for a lifetime of music and memories.