Gaines remained connected to the church after the transition, preaching occasionally. He preached as recently as September 2025.
In a letter to the congregation this week, Mandrell shared that Gaines had entered hospice care.
“This is obviously a very difficult time for Steve and his family,” wrote Mandrell. “Because of that, the family has requested not to have any visitors so they can focus on spending meaningful time together and caring for him in these days.”
“What [the Gaines family] have specifically requested is prayer,” Mandrell wrote. “Please join us in faithfully praying for Steve, for [his wife] Donna, and for their entire family—that the Lord would surround them with His peace, comfort, and strength.”
