Justin Cary, the bassist for Sixpence None the Richer, has died after suffering a serious stroke. He was just 50 years old.
The heartbreaking news was shared Thursday through a GoFundMe page created to help cover his medical expenses after the musician was rushed to Albany Med Hospital in New York one week earlier.
According to the fundraiser, Cary “passed peacefully” with his wife, Linda, by his side.
The devastating update asked fans to continue praying for Linda and their loved ones as they face the painful loss.
“Please continue to pray and give strength during this very difficult time,” the message read.
Cary had been fighting for his life since June 11, when he suffered what was described as a “serious stroke.” He underwent two surgeries and was placed in the intensive care unit.
At the time, friends and supporters said the road ahead was “uncertain and scary” as doctors worked to save him.
“The road ahead is uncertain and scary so if you are so inclined to pray, send good vibes and healing energy it would be truly appreciated,” the GoFundMe page stated.
The fundraiser was launched to help Cary and his wife during the terrifying medical crisis and to give Linda space to stay by her husband’s side at the hospital.
“We wanted to put together a fundraiser to help them during this time and show them love and support,” the page explained.
Just one day before his death, an update said Cary remained in the ICU and was on a respirator.
“He is receiving amazing care!” the update read. “Linda is right next to his bed reading to him and hopeful he hears her.”
The post added that Linda was also telling him “how much he is loved” as family, friends and fans prayed for a miracle.
Sadly, Cary died on June 18.
By the time news of his passing spread, more than 360 people had donated to the fundraiser, bringing in more than $38,000.
Linda later mourned her husband in a touching Instagram tribute, sharing throwback photos and writing, “What an honor to be his wife and best friend.”
Sixpence None the Richer also paid tribute to Cary on the band’s Instagram page with an emotional message.
“‘We sure had a great time’ is an understatement,” the band wrote. “Thank you, Justin. We love you forever.”
The post continued, “There’s never been anybody like Justin.”
Cary joined Sixpence None the Richer in 1997, five years after the band first formed. The group became a staple of late ’90s pop with its dreamy, instantly recognizable sound.
The band is best known for its smash 1998 hit “Kiss Me,” which became one of the defining songs of the era. The track climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned the group a Grammy nomination in 2000 for best pop performance by a duo or group with vocals.
The song also became a pop culture favorite after being featured in movies, TV shows and countless nostalgic playlists.
Sixpence None the Richer also released the 2002 single “Breathe Your Name,” another fan favorite.
The band’s lineup over the years included vocalist Leigh Nash, guitarist and songwriter Matt Slocum, drummer Dale Baker, guitarist Tess Wiley, keyboardist Jason Lehning and percussionist Steve Hindalong.
But for fans who grew up with “Kiss Me” playing on the radio, Cary’s death marks another painful goodbye to a piece of ’90s music history.
