RIP: Jeffrey Newberry of the Gospel Keynotes

The Journal of Gospel Music was saddened to learn of the passing of quartet singer Jeffrey Newberry on December 14, 2025. He was 69 years old.

According to his obituary, Jeffrey Wayne Newberry Sr. was born in Jacksonville, Florida, on February 24, 1956, and at age seventeen joined a local quartet called the Modulations, which featured stellar singer and future R&B star Glenn Jones. The Modulations toured the country and gave Newberry a taste of professional gospel singing.

Newberry studied music at Jacksonville State University and at age 21 joined Willie Neal Johnson and the Gospel Keynotes. Not only did he lead some of the Keynotes’ songs but also wrote selections such as “Hold On a Little While Longer.” He led the Keynotes’ gospelization of McFadden & Whitehead’s “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now,” a song that led to a GRAMMY nomination for the quartet. Over the years, the Gospel Keynotes also earned Dove and Stellar Award nominations.

After the death of Willie Neal Johnson, Newberry kept the Keynotes touring and recording. He became a deacon in 2012 of the Lighthouse Worship Center COGIC in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, under the leadership of Bishop Jimmie L. Williams. Newberry leaves behind Cassandra, his wife of 34 years; and two sons, three daughters, grandchildren, and other family members. His homegoing services took place at Lighthouse Worship Center COGIC on December 20, 2025.