About the song
Artists Came to Offer Condolences and Support to George Jones’ Wife
“A Final Goodbye to ‘The Possum’ That United the Country Music Family”
Nashville, Tennessee — May 2, 2013.
The pews of the Grand Ole Opry House were filled with sorrow, love, and reverence as country music royalty gathered to say farewell to one of its greatest legends — George Jones, affectionately known as “The Possum.” He passed away on April 26, 2013, at the age of 81, leaving behind not only an unmatched musical legacy but also a wife and soulmate who stood by him through every storm — Nancy Jones.
On that emotional spring morning, fans lined the streets of Nashville holding flowers, photos, and signs that read “We love you, George.” Inside, the air was heavy with both grief and gratitude. The service wasn’t just a funeral — it was a reunion of the country music family, united in honoring a man whose voice had defined generations.
A Hall Filled With Legends
From the first notes of “Amazing Grace” echoing through the hall, it was clear this would be a service unlike any other. Alan Jackson, Vince Gill, Kid Rock, Travis Tritt, Brad Paisley, Randy Travis, Charlie Daniels, and even former presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton attended to pay their respects.
Nancy Jones, dressed in black with tears in her eyes, sat quietly near the casket, which was draped with white roses. One by one, friends and fellow artists came to embrace her — comforting her with words, memories, and songs.
Vince Gill broke down in tears while performing “Go Rest High on That Mountain” alongside Patty Loveless. His voice cracked mid-song, and the audience joined in softly, turning the performance into a collective prayer.
“He was more than a singer,” Vince said afterward. “He was the soul of country music.”
Nancy’s Love and Strength
Nancy Jones had been George’s wife for 30 years — the woman credited with saving his life after decades of addiction and heartbreak. Her devotion became a cornerstone of his later years.
As she took the podium, the crowd rose to its feet in support. Fighting through tears, Nancy spoke from the heart:
“George wasn’t perfect, but he was mine — and he loved all of you. Thank you for loving him back all these years.”
Her words drew a standing ovation that lasted several minutes, echoing through the hallowed halls of the Opry.
Alan Jackson’s Emotional Farewell
The most unforgettable moment came near the end of the ceremony when Alan Jackson, one of George’s closest friends, stepped up to perform “He Stopped Loving Her Today.”
As the crowd wept silently, Alan’s voice trembled over the opening lines — a song once voted the greatest country song of all time. When he reached the final verse, he stepped back from the microphone and let the audience sing with him.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
A Legacy That Lives Forever
After the service, Nancy Jones received hundreds of condolences from fans and fellow artists. Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, and Garth Brooks all released statements honoring George’s memory.
Dolly wrote, “There’ll never be another like him. He sang from the heart, and that heart will echo forever.”
As the casket was carried out to the gentle hum of “Amazing Grace,” Nancy placed a single rose on top, whispering softly, “Goodnight, my darling.”
For those who loved him, George Jones wasn’t just the voice of country music — he was its heartbeat.
And though the man is gone, his songs — and the love he inspired — will never fade away.
