Tributes Abound At 6th Annual GMA Honors & Hall Of Fame Ceremony

Pictured (L-R): Gene Krcelic, Don Finto, Shane Quick, Gary Gentry, Roy Morgan, Dottie Leonard Miller, Jay DeMarcus, Yvette Boyd, Joe Don Rooney, LaDonna Boyd, Gary LeVox, Tramaine Hawkins, Don Moen, Janet Paschal, John Huie and GMA President & Executive Director Jackie Patillo Photo: Jamie Gilliam

The Gospel Music Association held its 6th Annual Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony last night (May 8) at Lipscomb University in Nashville. Legendary CCM artist Don Moen, President and CEO of New Day Christian Distributors Dottie Leonard Miller, southern gospel artist Janet Paschal and Grammy award-winning gospel singer Tramaine Hawkins were inducted into the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame during the evening’s festivities. 

The event also honored individuals and organizations that have had an impact on society. This year’s honorees included Don Finto for Caleb Company, R. H. Boyd Family Endowment Fund, Premier Foundation and country group Rascal Flatts.

Upon receiving their award, Rascal Flatts member Jay DeMarcus said, “The people in this room, some I have known for decades, have the responsibility to pass the good news and the hope forward of Jesus Christ in a world that so desperately needs it today. It is overwhelming. I love these guys so much. We have been in the trenches for nearly 20 years now. To watch some of the things on the screen we have done, it is very emotional. We just wanted a song on the radio. I have to give the glory back to God tonight, for giving us the incredible platform we have had to do some of these incredible things.”

There were plenty of heartfelt tributes and memorable performances throughout the evening by Christian and Gospel all-stars and special guests, including Governor Bill Lee, Dr. Bobby Jones, Gloria Gaither, Joel Smallbone, Jonathan McReynolds, Kelontae Gavin, Paul Baloche, TaRanda Greene, The Martins and many more.

Pictured (L-R): Joe Don Rooney, Maria Lee, Governor Bill Lee, Jay DeMarcus, Gary LeVox, Allison DeMarcus, Tara LeVox, and Jason Crabb at the GMA Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony in Nashville, Tenn. on May 8, 2019. Photo: Aaron Crisler

Tramaine Hawkins performs at the GMA Honors and Hall of Fame Ceremony in Nashville. Photo: Jamie Gilliam