Richard Smallwood, ‘Center of My Joy’ & ‘Total Praise’ Gospel Legend, Dead at 77

The family of Gospel legend Richard Smallwood has confirmed his death.

Taking to Facebook on Tuesday (December 30), a rep for the legendary singer-songwriter reported his passing just one month after celebrating his 77th birthday.

“We are saddened to announce the passing of world-renowned artist, songwriter, and musician, Richard Smallwood. 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,” the post said to his 330,000 followers on the platform.

At the time of this report the family has not disclosed the cause of death.

An 8-time GRAMMY nominee and multi-time Dove and Stellar Award winner, Smallwood – most famous for hits ‘Center of My Joy’ and ‘Total Praise’ – has gifted Gospel lovers five decades worth of classics across 10 studio albums and multiple specialty projects, collaborating with some of the genre’s biggest names in the process.