David “Pop” Winans Sr., the patriarch of the world-renowned gospel family that includes 10 children, died Thursday in Nashville. He was 76.

Winans had suffered a stroke and heart attack last October and had been in hospice since January.

Winans  passed away quietly with wife Delores Winans at his bedside, a family spokesperson told BET.com. "The family wishes  to thank everyone for their prayers and continued support, but would appreciate privacy at this time," she wrote in a statement.

David recorded with his wife, Delores, known as “Mom and Pop Winans.” The two met while in the Lucille Lemon Choir, which was conducted by the Rev. James Cleveland. Delores still sings and is signed to PureSprings Gospel, her daughter CeCe’s label.

The most well-known singers in the family are Benjamin and Priscilla, who go by the names “BeBe” and “CeCe.” Vickie Winans, another award-winning vocalist, is the wife of Marvin Winans, the fourth eldest child. The other siblings are David, the oldest; Ronald; Carvin and Marvin, twins; Michael; Angelique Winans-Caldwell; and Debra Renee Winans-Lowe.

Born in Detroit, Winans began singing with a gospel quartet at the age of 18, but before he landed his first recording contract he also worked as a car salesman, taxi driver and preacher.

Funeral services will be held at Detroit’s Perfecting Church, led by Marvin Winans, lead singer of The Winans siblings performers. Arrangements are incomplete, but a star-studded affair including gospel performances by contemporaries associated with the famous family is expected. The parish is expected to announce details within days.

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