Sixpence None the Richer Bassist Justin Cary Dies at 50 After Stroke

A quiet loss ripples through the Christian rock scene as Sixpence None the Richer’s bassist Justin Cary passed away on June 18 2026 after a stroke. The 50‑year‑old musician, born June 21 1975 in upstate New York, was 51 by birth date.

The band’s lead singer, Leigh Nash, confirmed the death with a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. In the post she wrote: “We sure had a great time” is an understatement. Thank you, Justin. We love you forever. Please keep his dear Linda close to your hearts. She is our family. There’s never been anybody like Justin.” The message included a photo of Cary and noted that his wife, Linda, was by his side in the hospital.

Cary moved to Nashville in 1997 and joined Sixpence None the Richer the same year. He first appeared on the band’s cover of “There She Goes” and later contributed to the albums Divine Discontent (1999), The Dawn of Grace (2001) and Lost in Transition (2004). His tenure overlapped with the group’s breakout single “Kiss Me,” which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals and helped the band reach international chart success.

On his personal website, Cary reflected on his career: “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. Sometimes easily, and sometimes the hard way! Along the way, a Grammy Nomination and hit singles kick‑started my career as a bassist.” The statement underscores the professional milestones he achieved while with the band.

Beyond Sixpence, Cary worked with several other artists. His credits include collaborations with Counting Crows, Blue County, Paul Brandt, Jennifer Knapp and Crazy Aces, showcasing his versatility across pop, country and alternative genres.

Cary’s death occurred at Albany Medical Center, where he had been hospitalized for a short illness following the stroke. A GoFundMe page set up by the band’s management confirmed that he was in the ICU and on a respirator before passing. The page also noted that his wife, Linda, remained with him during his final days.

The news prompted tributes from the music community. Obituaries on MemoriTree, OfficialObituary and Legacy.com each noted his contributions to Sixpence None the Richer and his broader influence as a bassist. The band’s official website and social‑media accounts posted memorial messages, and fans shared memories of his musicianship.

Sixpence None the Richer, formed in New Braunfels, Texas, and later based in Nashville, has been a prominent act in Christian alternative rock since the mid‑1990s. The group’s self‑titled album (1997) produced the hit “Kiss Me,” and the band has received two Grammy nominations, one for the single and another for the album Sixpence None the Richer (1997). Cary’s role as bassist helped shape the band’s sound during its most commercially successful period.

Cary’s death marks the loss of a musician who bridged pop, country and alternative scenes. His work remains part of Sixpence None the Richer’s legacy, and his collaborations continue to influence artists across genres. The band has not announced any plans for a replacement bassist, and no official statement has been released regarding future touring or recording activities.

The music community continues to mourn Cary’s passing, with many expressing gratitude for his contributions and wishing comfort to his family. His legacy lives on through the recordings he helped create and the musicians he inspired.