Veteran Hall of Fame artist Peg McKamey Bean passed away on December 26, 2023, due to complications from a stroke suffered on December 11, 2023. She was one of twelve children born to the late Rev. Ed and Velma McKamey. Peg was predeceased by her parents, as well as her siblings Lynn, Albert, Bill, Bud McKamey, Mae Pyke, Dora Horton, and Mary Brook.
In 1954, at the age of fifteen, Peg and her sisters Carol and Dora formed the family singing group, The McKameys. Three years later, they invited a young man, Ruben Bean, to join them as their guitarist. He would eventually become Peg’s husband on June 29, 1959. What began as a family endeavor blossomed into a nationally recognized ministry spanning over six decades. In 1980, after nearly thirty years of part-time touring, The McKameys transitioned to full-time ministry. Their career highlights include their first national number one song, “Who Put The Tears In The Eyes Of The Lamb” in 1984, and their signature hit, “God On The Mountain,” which propelled them to enduring success and a devoted fan base. Peg’s keen ability to select impactful songs, connect with audiences, and her passionate worship style were instrumental to the group’s success. The McKameys continued to share their gospel message with sincerity and enthusiasm until their official retirement from full-time touring in November 2019. Throughout her career, Peg received numerous accolades, including seven Singing News Fan Awards for Favorite Female Singer (1989-1994, 2002) and the Norcross-Templeton Award in 2011. She was also inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame in 2016.
Peg is survived by her husband, Ruben Bean; daughters Connie Fortner and Sheryl Farris; sons Michael Bean and Brian Bean; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her sister Carol (Jess) Woodard, with whom she toured and ministered for over 30 years. She is also survived by her brothers Robert, Jay, and Andy McKamey.
Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Singing News. The family requests prayers during this difficult time.
Written by Barbara Huffman.