Inducted 2000

One of the truly influential quartet men in Southern gospel history, Earl Weatherford not only created one of the industry's best-known groups, but also played a tremendous role in shaping the careers of several of the most outstanding performers to emerge in the second half of the 20th century.

Forming his first group in southern California in the mid-1940s, Weatherford worked tirelessly to create the smooth sound that ultimately came to define the quartet that Cathedrals of Tomorrow in Akron, Ohio, the Weatherfords perfected a sound that most in the industry envied but few could emulate. Partnered with his wife, Lily Fern, and joined by Glen Payne, Armond Morales, and Henry Slaughter, Earl built what was widely regarded as one of the finest quartets in Southern Gospel history. 

Over a lifetime of song and service, Earl Weatherford achieved the respect of his peers as well as the admiration of his fans.