Managing director of Kingsway was ‘a dedicated visionary’ who mentored and developed songwriters

Christian music pioneer John Paculabo died Jan. 22 in Eastbourne, England, after a six-month battle with cancer. Managing director of Kingsway for more than 20 years, Paculabo was 66.

“The impact of his vision and legacy will continue to be felt through the worship of local churches on a global scale,” said officials for Kingsway, a worship music company in Eastbourne that is now part of David C Cook. “Even though we know he ran a good race (2 Tim. 4: 6-8), we miss him dearly.”

Originally from Liverpool, England, Paculabo was signed by Kingsway in 1971 as an artist/writer with his band Parchment. A year later, the group enjoyed mainstream success with “Light Up the Fire,” a song still used in school assemblies.

In 1976, Paculabo was appointed A&R manager of Pilgrim Records, where he produced hundreds of albums. In the 1980s, he moved into copyright acquisition and management, relocating to Eastbourne in 1988 to accept a position at Kingsway as director of music.

Within two years, he became managing director. In 2008, Paculabo received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Christian Booksellers Convention in the U.K.

“John’s gentle spirit, relaxed approach, great sense of humor and love of people was matched by his desire to live with purpose and passion, with a tenacity to see lives transformed,” Kingsway officials said. “John was much loved and respected, particularly for his ability to empower, support and serve others with humility. … He was a dedicated visionary who was determined to mentor and develop songwriters.”

Paculabo established Thankyou Music as a global publisher, working in partnership with Capitol CMG Publishing. He is credited with helping inspire songs such as “In Christ Alone,” “All Heaven Declares,” “Here I Am to Worship,” “Everlasting God” and “Heart of Worship.”

Paculabo is survived by his wife of 33 years, three children and one grandchild.

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