Introduction
A Heartbreaking Farewell: David Phelps and the Legacy of Lorie Purle Phelps
The Christian music world was plunged into mourning following the sudden and devastating news shared by renowned tenor David Phelps. On the evening of Thursday, January 7, 2026, his wife of 35 years, Lorie Purle Phelps, passed away following a massive heart attack. The tragedy occurred unexpectedly at their home in Culleoka, Tennessee, as the family was preparing for dinner. Despite the rapid response of emergency services and the efforts of medical teams at a nearby hospital, Lorie was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Lorie was far more than the wife of a gospel icon; she was the “rock” and the “unwavering support system” that allowed David’s ministry to flourish. Born on the same day as David—October 21, 1969—the couple viewed their shared birthday as a sign of divine alignment. They met in the late 1980s while David was studying at Baylor University. From those early days, Lorie was the “glue” of the family, managing the logistics of David’s global tours while raising their four children: Callie, Maggie Beth, Grant, and Coby.
The couple’s journey was one defined by both triumph and trial. In 2013, the family faced a daunting battle when Lorie was diagnosed with stage four colon cancer. Her eventual remission became a powerful testimony of faith that David often incorporated into his music, inspiring millions with themes of hope and healing. Beyond her role in David’s career, Lorie was a creative force in her own right. She was instrumental in transforming their Tennessee farm into “The Barn at the Phelps Farm,” a venue for workshops and the “Barn & Bale” marketplace, where she showcased handmade goods.
In the wake of her passing, tributes have poured in from industry legends. Bill Gaither, David’s longtime mentor from the Gaither Vocal Band, described Lorie as “the heart of David’s world”. Fellow artists Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant also shared their heartbreak, offering prayers for the Phelps family during this dark time.
As David Phelps puts his career on hold to focus on his family and the grieving process, he finds solace in the very hymns he has sung for decades. Though the “unimaginable void” left by Lorie’s death is profound, the family remains anchored in their faith. In lieu of flowers, they have requested donations to heart health organizations, hoping Lorie’s story will raise awareness just as her cancer battle once did. Lorie Purle Phelps leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, devotion, and an unshakable faith that will continue to inspire the community she served so faithfully.