CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 22, 2016—Cliff Barrows, music and program director of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA), died Tuesday, Nov. 15, at the age of 93, and was laid to rest at the Billy Graham Library today. The private family ceremony, conducted by Rev. John Munro, marked the passing of one of Billy Graham’s faithful ministry partners for more than 60 years.
As longtime director of music, television, and radio programming for Billy Graham Crusades, Barrows traveled the world with Graham since the first Crusade in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1947. Barrows also hosted the weekly Hour of Decision radio program heard around the world for six decades.
Barrows and Graham met in 1945 while Barrows was on his honeymoon in Asheville, N.C. The two men soon formed the first team of what was to later become the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.
“Cliff Barrows’ soul is eternally secure in the hands of God,” said Franklin Graham, president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, following the passing of Barrows. “His family doesn’t have to worry or wonder where he is. Jesus said, ‘I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand’ (John 10:28).”
A public memorial service for Barrows was held earlier in the day at Calvary Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. The service was led by Calvary Church Senior Pastor, Rev. John Munro, with remarks by Rev. David Bruce, executive assistant to Billy Graham. A message from Franklin Graham was read by his son, Rev. Will Graham. Members of the Barrows family, grandson Ben Thomas, daughter Bonnie Barrows Thomas, and step-son Tal Prince, also shared tributes to their patriarch.
Musical tributes included a prelude and postlude by BGEA Crusade Pianist John Innes, and Stan Whitmire; a recording by the late BGEA Crusade soloist, George Beverly Shea, of “Safe in the Arms of Jesus;” special music performed by Buddy Greene and Jeff Taylor, “How Can I Keep from Singing” and “Just As I Am;” the Gaither Vocal Band, “My Savior First of All,” and “O Love That Will Not Let Me Go;” international musician Huw Priday, “Healer of My Heart;” and congregational singing led by BGEA Associate and friend of Mr. Barrows, Tom Bledsoe.
A special memorial website has been set up in Mr. Barrows’ honor, accessible via cliffbarrowsmemorial.org. Also, the Billy Graham Library (4330 Westmont Dr., Charlotte, NC 28217) will display a special exhibit about Barrows, from Nov. 22-30, 2016, and Jan. 1-31, 2017.
MEDIA CONTACT
Erik Ogren
704-401-2117
eogren@bgea.org