Veteran Southern Gospel singer and 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 84.
Born one of twelve children to the late Reverend Ed and Velma McKamey, Peg’s musical journey began in 1954 when, as a teenager, she and her sisters Carol and Dora formed the family trio, The McKameys. Three years later, they enlisted a young guitarist, Ruben Bean, who would later become Peg’s husband on June 29, 1959. What began as a part-time endeavor blossomed into a nationally recognized ministry spanning over six decades. In 1980, The McKameys transitioned to full-time touring, achieving their first national number-one song, “Who Put The Tears In The Eyes Of The Lamb,” in 1984. Their signature song, “God On The Mountain,” propelled them to enduring success and cemented their status as fan favorites. Peg’s talent for selecting impactful songs, her ability to connect with audiences, and her passionate worship style were key to the group’s remarkable achievements. 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’s contributions were widely recognized. She received the Singing News Fan Award for Favorite Female Singer seven times (1989-1994, 2002) and was honored with the Norcross-Templeton Award in 2011. In 2016, she was inducted into the Southern Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame.
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 brothers Robert, Jay, and Andy McKamey. She was preceded in death by her parents, and siblings Lynn, Albert, Bill, Bud, Mae Pyke, Dora Horton, and Mary Brook.
Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Singing News. The family requests prayers during this difficult time.
*Written by Barbara Huffman*