Richard Smallwood cause of death: How did Grammy–nominated composer die at 77?

Richard Smallwood, celebrated gospel musician, passes away at 77 after long battle with kidney issues.

Updated on: Dec 31, 2025, 24:10:51 IST

By Shweta Kukreti

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Richard Smallwood, the renowned gospel artist, has passed away at the age of 77 following complications from kidney failure, confirmed his publicist Bill Carpenter to the Washington Post.

Richard Smallwood, celebrated gospel musician, has died at 77 from complications related to kidney failure. (X@Phil_Lewis_)

Richard Smallwood's cause of death

Carpenter stated that Smallwood had been struggling with kidney problems for an extended period and ultimately succumbed to these issues on Tuesday at a nursing facility in Maryland.

“We are saddened to announce the passing of world-renowned artist, songwriter, and musician, Richard Smallwood,” read a statement posted on Smallwood's Instagram. “The family asks that you respect our privacy during this difficult time, while helping to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind and the gifts he unselfishly shared with the world.”

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Richard Smallwood dies at 77: Tributes pour in

With his death news, the gospel music community expressed their affection for Smallwood and reminisced about his unique career.

"To Be Absent From The Body Is To Be Present With The Lord," Callie Day said in a post on Instagram. “Your Legacy Will Live On Through Us Maestro. Praying God’s Blessings To The Smallwood Family And Friends And ‘Vision.’”

“The great will be missed but the legacy will remain,” J. Moss said.

Smallwood, who was one of the most significant personalities in the realm of gospel music, received eight Grammy nominations throughout his distinguished career, securing a victory for his production contributions to Quincy Jones' Handel's Messiah: A Soulful Celebration.

Smallwood has created songs with a lasting influence, including Total Praise and I Love The Lord, which have been covered by artists like Whitney Houston and Destiny's Child. In 2006, he was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shweta Kukreti
Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More

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