I first met Dale Guyton in 1982 when I joined a gospel group with whom he was playing bass guitar. We quickly became close friends. But unfortunately after about six months we both left the group. Dale and I lived about twenty miles apart and eventually lost track of each other. Then in Jan. 2008, twenty six years later, we found ourselves playing together again at a weekly Tues. Nite Gospel Jam. Much to both of our disappointment the lead singer began to intergrate country music into the program. Dale, Joe Williams (Grand Ole Gospels Saxaphonist) and myself felt that this wasn't the path the Lord would have us to follow. Henceforth, we pulled out. At the same time the Lord opened another door for us. The Chadbourn Arts Building became available. What a blessing for Joe and Myself! Dale, however, due to family obligations, was not at that time able to join us in our new venture. He was however the behind the scene driving force to encourage me to continue with this new project. During the first two months of this year The Grand Ole Gospel went through a difficult peroid of transition. There were times I felt like just giving up and closing the doors for good. There is no doubt that the Lord sent Dale to encourage me to persevere. Dale knew the devil was trying me and I fully believe that his prayers and encouragement helped carry me through. Although Dale has worked in association with professional groups such as Gold City,The Dixie Melody Boys and others he never forgot his friends at The Grand Ole Gospel in Chadbourn.
On the nights he could attend The Grand Ole Gospel you would find him in the lobby area shaking hands and fellowshiping with almost everyone who came through the door. Unfortunately for all of us Dale has had to leave us for a while to work out of state. His presence will be sorely missed at The Grand Ole Gospel. Please remember to keep him and his family in your prayers.
I consider it an honor and a blessing to call Dale Guyton my friend
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Mike Barnes
Organ/Keyboards-Grand Ole Gospel
