Jerry Sullivan

Born on November 22, 1933. Died May 31, 2014 Father of Tammy Sullivan. Jerry Sullivan of the famous traditional bluegrass Gospel group, the Sullivan Family, passed away at his home on Saturday May 31. A native of Wagarville, in rural southern Alabama, born on November 22, 1933, Gerald ‘Jerry’ Sullivan was attracted to Gospel music from childhood. Also Jerry’s older brother Arthur, when establishing a ministry based on Pentecostalism. encouraged his family to play music to accompany their worshiping. He was an early recruit to the Sullivan Family, playing bass behind Margie, Enoch and Emmett. The family band launched its career at Radio WRJW Picayune, Mississippi. From 1950 to 1956 the Sullivans were based in Jackson, Alabama, but they were soon touring, finding as much acceptance on the bluegrass and Gospel music circuits as they grew to favor a traditional sound. Their first recordings were for the Revival label and the Loyal Records label, owned by fellow evangelist, revivalist and broadcast musician Walter Bailes. They stayed with Bailes between 1959 and the early 1970s. Walking My Lord Up Calvary’s Hill and Old Brush Arbor were among their most popular songs. During his years with the Sullivan Family band Jerry Sullivan grew into a talented and well-respected songwriter, counting among his credits such classic titles as Sing Daddy a Song, The Last Mile and From the Manger to the Garden. (https://bluegrasstoday.com/jerry-sullivan-passes/)