This week in Christian history: George Beverly Shea born, ‘Walk to Canossa,’ James Caughey dies
George Beverly Shea born – Feb. 1, 1909
This week marks the anniversary of when George Beverly Shea, a professional singer best known for his performances at Billy Graham's crusades, was born in Winchester, Ontario, Canada.
The son of a pastor, Shea recorded numerous Christian music albums and was frequently involved in Billy Graham Evangelistic Association events when he was well into his 90s.
Shea won one Grammy Award, was nominated for 10 Grammys, and presently holds the Guinness World Record for “Most people sung in front of during an individual career,” at around 220 million people.
“Even though Bev was 10 years older than my father, he never acted his age,” said the Rev. Franklin Graham, son of Billy Graham, in a statement in 2013 in response to Shea’s passing at age 104.
“He was absolute fun to be with. Bev was one of the most gracious and unassuming men I have known. He was always encouraging and supportive, a man of deep faith and strong commitment to Jesus Christ.”
