Another member of Eli’s family member’s thanked those who has contributed, saying, “All of our family would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation for all of the generous donations. We will make sure to put them all to good use and find ways to honor our precious Eli.”
Anderson joined Third Day in 1992, a year after Mac Powell and Mark Lee founded the band. He remained as a member until 2015 when he announced he needed “to place my identity as a child of God and as a husband and father above the touring lifestyle.”
Three years later, Third Day played a 20-concert farewell show, ending the band’s 27 year run—a run that included four Grammy Awards, an American Music Award, and 24 Dove Awards.
Update: This article has been updated with the information regarding Anderson’s daughter Mackenzie.
