Vanessa Brown Knowles, Stellar Award-Winning Gospel Singer, Dies in Tragic Accident

The gospel music community is mourning the loss of Vanessa Brown Knowles, beloved member of the Stellar Award-winning quartet Lisa Knowles Smith & The Brown Singers, who tragically passed away in a car accident on I-55 in Jefferson County on Sunday.

Vanessa, 63, was traveling when a tractor-trailer, driven by Richard Allen Holden and reportedly moving at about 70 mph, crashed into slowed traffic near a construction zone. Eight vehicles were involved in the accident, resulting in the deaths of three people, including Vanessa, and injuries to five others. Holden has been charged with three counts of second-degree involuntary manslaughter.

Vanessa Brown Knowles' voice and ministry touched countless lives. She can be heard on songs such as Work On Me, Jesus Is On the Main Line, and Never Really Know, and played an integral role in her group's success, which included winning two Stellar Awards in 2024 for their album Live in Memphis 2. Beyond her musical contributions, Vanessa was the mother of lead singer Lisa Knowles Smith, supporting and shaping the next generation of gospel artists. Her legacy lives on in the music she shared, the lives she impacted, and the faith she exemplified.

The gospel community extends heartfelt condolences to the Knowles, Brown, and Smith families. Please keep them in your prayers during this difficult time.

 

 

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