Richard Smallwood, the Renowned Gospel Artist, Dies Due to Complications From Kidney Failure

Richard Smallwood, the Grammy-nominated gospel powerhouse, died on December 30, 2025, at age 77. The Washington DC native passed peacefully at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Centre in Sandy Spring, Maryland, after battling health woes that slowed his final years. With eight Grammy nods, three Dove Awards, and multiple Billboard gospel No. 1s, he was known for his masterpiece "Total Praise". 

Smallwood was a giant in the industry whose work bridged the gap between classical music and traditional Black gospel. Throughout his career, he shaped contemporary worship through groups like Vision. Fans and fellow artists mourn a voice that turned faith into music magic.

Richard Smallwood Cause of Death: Complications from Kidney Failure

According to official statements from his family and representatives, Richard Smallwood died due to complications from kidney failure. His health had been a concern for several years, as he battled long-term kidney issues alongside other challenges. 

The Facebook post read, "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." 

Publicist Bill Carpenter confirmed details to Variety. Smallwood, ordained after a Howard Divinity master's, leaves siblings, nieces, nephews, and godchildren, with no immediate family mentioned in tributes.

ALSO READ- At 80, Khaleda Zia, Bangladesh First Female PM, Dies Due to Advanced Liver Cirrhosis

What Was Richard Smallwood's Illness?

Center of My Joy

Richard Smallwood 🕊️ (2003)pic.twitter.com/CR2ofw3UHy

— Gospel 🙏💎 (@DITR_Gospel) December 30, 2025

His health had been a concern for several years, as he battled long-term kidney issues alongside other challenges. While he remained a pillar of faith for his fans, his publicist noted that Smallwood had been struggling with his health for an extended period. 

In his 2019 autobiography, Total Praise, he opened up about his lifelong battle with clinical depression. He often spoke about how his most famous songs were born out of his darkest moments.

In his final years, Richard also faced mild dementia, which eventually prevented him from recording new music or touring. Despite these physical battles, his family shared on social media that he remained at peace, asking fans to help "celebrate the legacy he leaves behind and the gifts he unselfishly shared with the world."

ALSO READ- Rebecca Gayheart on Estranged Husband, Eric Dane’s ALS Diagnosis and Early Signs of the Disease

Conclusion

The passing of Richard Smallwood marks the end of a golden era in gospel music. While his battle with kidney failure has come to an end, the "Maestro" leaves behind a catalogue of music that will be sung in churches for centuries to come. He proved that even in the face of physical illness and mental health struggles, one can create something timeless.