09/07/2026
OFFICIAL STATEMENT
FROM THE FAMILY OF RICHARD SMALLWOOD & THE SMALL RICH FOUNDATION
The family of Richard Smallwood and The Small Rich Foundation would like to sincerely thank the countless fans, friends, artists, colleagues, and supporters who have expressed their concern, disappointment, and frustration regarding the absence of any recognition of Richard Smallwood during the main show of the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards .
We have seen your comments, read your messages, and felt the tremendous love behind every word.
Richard Smallwood dedicated his life to Gospel music and ministry, creating a body of work that has touched generations, transformed lives, and helped shape the sound of Gospel music around the world.
We understand and share the disappointment expressed by so many that Richard’s extraordinary life, legacy, and contributions to Gospel music were not acknowledged during the 41st Stellar Gospel Music Awards main show.
We remain deeply concerned that a legacy of this magnitude was not acknowledged during the main show. While we continue to process this disappointment, we remain equally committed to ensuring that Richard’s music, ministry, impact, and extraordinary contributions to Gospel music are never forgotten.
To everyone who continues to speak his name, sing his songs, share his music, tell his story, and remind the world of what he gave to Gospel music, thank you. Your love for Richard means more to our family than words can adequately express.
Through The Small Rich Foundation, we are committed to ensuring that Richard Smallwood’s legacy continues to live, inspire, educate, and create opportunities for generations to come.
We invite you to stay connected as we share more information in the coming months about the Foundation and ways you can join us in preserving, celebrating, and carrying forward the remarkable legacy of Richard Smallwood.
With gratitude and love,
The Family of Richard Smallwood
The Small Rich Foundation
