Contact: David Yocum, James Dobson's Family Talk, 719-244-9300

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo., April 19, 2013 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following is a statement from Dr. James Dobson on the passing of beloved singer, George Beverly Shea:

Joining with members of the Christian community around the world, the entire Family Talk staff and I mourn the loss of George Beverly Shea, who passed into the presence of the Lord on April 16, 2013, at the age of 104. Mr. Shea, along with Cliff Barrows, was an integral part of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Team for almost sixty years. One could hardly expect to hear Billy Graham preach an evangelistic message without first hearing Mr. Shea reverently rendering a gospel hymn.

The Lord certainly gifted this man! His rich baritone voice inspired stadiums full of crusade attendees, as well as millions of television viewers. The music he sang, or led audiences in singing, included such well-known hymns as "The Wonder of It All," "I'd Rather Have Jesus" (both of which he wrote), "His Eye Is On the Sparrow," "Just As I Am, Without One Plea," and the classic for which he may be remembered best, "How Great Thou Art." The music in a Billy Graham Crusade touched the spirits of countless individuals. I am confident that many hearts were prepared to listen to Mr. Graham's exposition of the "good news" of Jesus Christ because of Bev Shea's ministry.

Dr. Graham and Mr. Shea enjoyed a close friendship that spanned seventy years! That in itself is a rarity in today's world. United by their deep love for the Lord and their passion for evangelism, they forged a strong brotherly bond, committing together to live in a manner that was above reproach. I have respected these men for many years. Those who have known them would tell you they are exemplary models of what it looks like to "conduct themselves in a manner worthy of the gospel" that they proclaimed. I admired Bev Shea so much, not just because of his incredible voice, but because he loved Jesus Christ with all his heart.

Mr. Shea made an indelible mark on Christendom, leaving a tremendous spiritual and musical legacy. He was a man who loved and was thankful for his family. He is survived by his wife Karlene, his son Ronald and daughter Elaine, and his grandchildren. We will miss him on this earth, and look forward to a reunion on the other side. I am thankful for the life and ministry of this man of God.

www.georgebeverlysheamemorial.org

Dr. James Dobson, Christian psychologist and best-selling author, is founder and president of "Family Talk," a broadcasting and internet-based ministry launched in March, 2010.

www.drjamesdobson.org