Gospel singer Sandra Crouch died on March 17 at Northridge Hospital in Northridge, California. She was 81.
According to Billboard, the Grammy Award-winning gospel musician's cause of death is due to complications from radiation treatment for a non-cancerous brain lesion.
The news was shared by Kenneth Cook, who worked with the singer at the New Christ Memorial Church.
"It's with a heavy heart that I announce that at 12pm today, March 17, 2024, our beloved Senior Pastor Sandra Elaine Crouch transitioned into the arms of the Lord," the announcement read.
"We as believers know that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. We will forever cherish the memories and teachings we received from her."
Sandra Crouch's Legacy in Gospel Music
Crouch was the twin sister of the late Andraé Crouch; together, they wrote the hit gospel song "Jesus Is The Answer."
The group was called Andraé Crouch & The Disciples, but Sandra Crouch also worked as a percussionist in Hollywood.
Her work has been featured in several projects like Neil Diamond's Tap Root Manuscript, Janis Joplin's Pearl, and The Jackson 5's "I Want You Back." Beyond gospel, Sandra and her brother worked on the soundtracks to a number of high-profile films, including 1985's The Color Purple, 1993's Free Willy, and 1994's The Lion King. She also joined the gospel chorus backing Michael Jackson when he performed his No. 1 hit "Man in the Mirror" at the 1988 Grammys, when it was nominated for Record of the Year.
The Gospel Music Association honored the late singer on its website, highlighting her contributions to the genre and career milestones.
Crouch won a Grammy Award for Best Soul Gospel Performance for her We Sing Praises album in 1984.
Crouch also won Dove Awards in 1984 for the same album and With All of My Heart in 1993.
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Sandra Crouch Took on New Role After Music Career
Due to her religious upbringing and faith, Crouch became an active member of her church, and she was ordained as a co-pastor alongside her brother at the New Christ Memorial Church.
While she had not released music for decades, her music continued to be played at religious events and on radio stations.
Her most recent release was the compilation album Gospel Legacy in 2008. Her other albums include With All of My Heart (1992), We're Waiting for You (1985), and We Sing Praises (1983).
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