Justin Cary, who spent nearly three decades as the bassist for Sixpence None the Richer, died on June 18, 2026, after suffering a stroke. He was 50 years old.
The musician had been receiving care in the intensive care unit at Albany Medical Center in New York following what a GoFundMe page described as a serious stroke suffered in mid-June 2026. He underwent two surgeries before his death. His passing prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians, and bandmates who had worked alongside him for 30 years.
Tributes From Fellow Band Members
Lead singer Leigh Nash took to Instagram on June 18 to honor her late bandmate, saying that calling their time together “a great time” was an understatement. She thanked Cary and said the band would love him forever, asking fans to keep his wife, Linda, close in their hearts.
Guitarist and co-founder Matt Slocum said on June 19 that the band was completely heartbroken and that the depth of their grief reflected the depth of their love for Cary, whom he called their bandmate, brother-in-arms, and friend for three decades. He ended his statement with “Cheers amigo, see you on the other side.”
Three Decades With the Band
Cary became part of Sixpence None the Richer in 1997, joining at a pivotal moment for the group. The band released its self-titled album that year, featuring the smash hit “Kiss Me” — a track recorded by his predecessor but one Cary would perform nightly for nearly three decades. The song climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned the band a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.
His bass work anchored the band’s success both in the studio and on stage throughout his time with the group. Sixpence None the Richer charmed audiences worldwide with other standout tracks, including covers of “There She Goes” and “Don’t Dream It’s Over,” each earning the band a devoted following.
Collaborations Across Genres
Beyond his work with Sixpence None the Richer, Cary collaborated with numerous artists in various settings throughout his career, working with acts including Counting Crows and Lee Brice. His range demonstrated an adaptability that allowed him to move comfortably between alternative rock, country, and pop contexts.
Fellow musicians shared tributes recognizing his talent and the lasting impact he had on those around him, testament to a career built on dedication rather than self-promotion. Those who knew Cary consistently described him as not only a gifted musician but also a warm and reliable presence.
Justin Cary’s legacy is one of quiet but enduring impact — a musician who never sought the spotlight for himself but whose work appears on some of the most memorable recordings of the past 30 years. From the opening notes of “Kiss Me” to sessions with artists across genres, he gave generously of his talent and earned the respect of everyone he worked with.
Tributes from fellow musicians and fans in the days following his death painted a picture of someone valued not just for his musical ability but for his character. In an industry often defined by ego and competition, Cary stood out as a collaborator, a friend, and a steady presence who made the music better simply by being part of it.