Gospel artist Calvin Hunt passes away

QUEENS, NY: January 05, 2010, (PCTV Newsdesk)

Gospel artist Calvin Hunt passed away on December 26, 2009 at the hospital in Queens, NY, according to the religious website www.beliefnet.com

The website says the 52-year-old Hunt was a member and soloist of the famed Christ Tabernacle Choir and Brooklyn Tabernacle Singers. His latest Vine Records' release, Bridges, earned two 2008 Dove Award nominations for Contemporary Gospel Recording and Contemporary Gospel Song, "Come On."

Beliefnet.com  says Hunt's life was a story of overcoming obstacles and tragedy.

One bio explains, "One of eight children, Calvin knew the struggle of growing up as the child of an alcoholic single mother. To ease financial burdens at home, 12-year-old Calvin found work at an Italian pizzeria in his hometown of Queens, New York, and became a trusted employee for the next seven years."

Beliefnet.com says Hunt went on to form his own band, but when the group disbanded he succumbed to drug abuse. Eventually, with the support of his church, wife, Miriam and their two children, he overcame a crack addiction and went on to full-time ministry.

In 2005, his oldest daughter Monique was murdered by her ex-boyfriend -- in front of her three young sons.

Most recently, the website states that Hunt had been battling cancer.

Through it all, he continued his ministry, traveling the country to encourage people to look at life and know that God is the author of life.

Condolences and/or gifts to the family can be made to Calvin Hunt Ministries and sent to Christ Tabernacle, 6434 Myrtle Avenue, Glendale, NY 11358 attn: Calvin Hunt Ministries.

News source: www.assistnews.net