By Robert M. Marovich
Archie Swindell Jr. informed the Journal of Gospel Music that Clyde Wright, quartet singer and member of the world-famous Golden Gate Quartet, passed away on July 1, 2026, following severe complications from Alzheimer’s disease. He was 98.
Prior to his tenure as second tenor with the Golden Gates, which he joined in 1954 prior to the group’s departure to sing (and ultimately headquarter) in Europe, Wright was a member of the Golden Bell Quintet (RCA Victor) and the Selah Jubilee Singers (Savoy, Jubilee). Wright cut his own records, My Confession (Philips, 1957), Sings Jesus (BASF, 1973), and Oh, What a Day (Fremeaux & Associes, 1996). He maintained the jubilee quartet singing style throughout his career.
Mr. Wright’s children posted homegoing details on Facebook:
“A first memorial service celebrating Clyde’s life and honoring his memory will be held for his French and European family and friends who wish to attend on Monday, July 13, 3:30 p.m. at Père-Lachaise Cemetery, Salle de la Coupole, 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris, France.
“Following the Paris ceremony, we will accompany our beloved father back to the United States, where he will be laid to rest beside his loved ones in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he was born, in accordance with his final wishes.
“A Homegoing Service will be held on Thursday, July 16, at 7pm, at his family church:
The United House of Prayer for All People (Charlotte #2)
2526 Statesville Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28206, USA
“The burial will take place the following day, Friday, July 17, at 11am. at Oaklawn Cemetery
1615 Oaklawn Avenue
Charlotte, NC 28216, USA
Special thanks to Wright’s son Denver for confirming some of the historical details.
Written by : Bob Marovich
Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.
