Full Breakdown
Bassist Justin Cary of Sixpence None the Richer Dies at 50
6/20/2026, 2:03:07 AM
Justin Cary’s Passing: Key Facts
Justin Cary, the longtime bassist of the pop-rock group Sixpence None the Richer, died peacefully on Thursday, June 18 2026, at age 50. He had suffered a serious stroke on June 11 2026, was hospitalized at Albany Medical Center in New York, underwent two surgeries, and was placed on a respirator in the intensive-care unit before his death. His wife, Linda Cary, was at his bedside throughout.
Background: Sixpence None the Richer and Cary’s Role
Formed in 1992, Sixpence None the Richer achieved mainstream success with the 1998 single “Kiss Me,” which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination in 2000. Cary joined the band in 1997, replacing bassist J.J. Plasencio, and remained a member for nearly three decades. Outside the group, he recorded and toured with artists such as Counting Crows, Jennifer Knapp, and Lee Brice.
Timeline of Illness and Death
- June 11 2026 – Cary suffers a serious stroke; admitted to Albany Medical Center.
- June 11–12 – Undergoes two surgical procedures; placed in ICU.
- June 16 2026 – Band frontwoman Leigh Nash shares a GoFundMe link, urging prayers.
- June 17 2026 – Update notes Cary is on a respirator; Linda reads to him bedside.
- June 18 2026 – Cary passes away peacefully with Linda beside him.
Fundraising and Public Support
A GoFundMe campaign launched on June 11 raised more than $38,000 from over 360 donors, approaching its $40,000 target. The page was used to cover medical expenses and to keep Linda at Cary’s side during treatment.
Official Statements from Band and Organizers
Leigh Nash, the band’s lead singer, posted on Instagram that the group “love[s] our brother so so much” and thanked fans for prayers. Matt Slocum, guitarist and co-founder, described the loss as “completely heart-broken” and emphasized the depth of the band’s grief. The GoFundMe organizer’s updates repeatedly asked supporters to “continue to pray and give strength during this very difficult time.”
Criticism & Opposition
No critical or opposing commentary was reported in the available sources.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
One source cited a July 17 2026 update claiming Cary remained in ICU, contradicting the confirmed June 18 death. Additionally, a Pakistani outlet mistakenly identified Cary as a guitarist rather than a bassist. These inconsistencies highlight the challenges of real-time reporting.
Verbatim Quotes
- “‘We sure had a great time’ is an understatement. Thank you, Justin. We love you forever. Please keep his dear Linda close to your hearts. She is our family. There’s never been anybody like Justin.” — Leigh Nash, Instagram
- “Justin passed peacefully this morning and Linda was next to him please continue to pray and give strength during this very difficult time.” — GoFundMe organizer
- “and the depth of our grief proves the depth of our love for this wonderful man who was our bandmate, brother-in-arms, and friend for 30 years.” — Matt Slocum, interview with People
- “He has had two surgeries and is in the ICU.” — GoFundMe update, June 11 2026
- “Saw his brilliance, second to NONE professionalism, class, humor (oh my lord the humor) wit, tough as an old boot as they say.” — Leigh Nash, Instagram story
Impact and Upcoming Tour
Sixpence None the Richer is scheduled to begin a series of shows on July 25 2026 in McAlester, Oklahoma. The band has not confirmed whether Cary’s death will alter the itinerary, but the announcement underscores the group’s intent to continue performing while honoring his legacy.
