Justin Cary, the bassist who provided the rhythmic foundation for the Texan Alt-Pop band Sixpence None The Richer, has passed away. Cary, who was 50, suffered a stroke last week. His passing was confirmed yesterday by his wife, Linda, who noted that he died peacefully.

Earlier this week, bandmate Leigh Nash shared the news of Cary’s health crisis on Instagram, while also circulating a GoFundMe page to assist with the medical and personal expenses for Cary and his wife.

Cary joined Sixpence None The Richer in the mid-90s, stepping in to replace original bassist JJ Plasencio just before the recording of the band’s self-titled 1997 breakout album. The group, founded by Leigh Nash and Matt Slocum, had previously released two independent records, 1994’s The Fatherless And The Widow and 1995’s This Beautiful Mess, during their early years as a Christian rock duo.

The band’s 1997 self-titled album achieved massive success, largely driven by the enduring popularity of the track “Kiss Me.” The song, which gained significant traction after its inclusion on the soundtrack for the 1999 film She’s All That, peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become a definitive pop standard, covered by artists ranging from Sabrina Carpenter to the dream-pop outfit Wildhoney.

Following the platinum success of their self-titled release, the band saw further chart action with covers of the La’s’ “There She Goes” and Crowded House’s “Don’t Dream It’s Over.” Despite the momentum, the group faced challenges, including the delayed release of their 2002 follow-up Divine Discomfort, eventually leading to a breakup in 2004.

While Cary did not participate in the band’s various reunions throughout the 2000s and 2010s, he returned to the fold when the classic lineup reconvened to tour and record the 2024 EP Rosemary Hill. His contributions to the band’s sound remain a vital part of their legacy.