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| George Jones Memorial Ceremony |
In this life there are a lot of singers, but there will never be another George Jones. Today, friends and family of the country music legend bid farewell to someone that rightfully earned the title of being a legend. It was ever fitting that his final performance would be on stage of the Grand Ole Opry.
Tanya Tucker opened the ceremonies with The Imperials in singing "Old Rugged Cross." Governor Bill Haslam and Pastor Mike Wilson spoke before Randy Travis sang "Amazing Grace" and the Oak Ridge Boys sang "Farther Along."
One by one, speakers Bob Schieffer, Barbara Mandrell, Mike Huckabee, Kenny Chesney, and Laura Bush spoke about the kindness and spirit of George Jones. Charlie Daniels, Travis Tritt, Kid Rock, Wynonna, and Brad Paisley sang in tribute.
Two moments stood out in memory of the celebration of George Jones' life. A humbled Vince Gill and Patty Loveless came out on stage and poured their heart into "Go Rest High On That Mountain." Overcome with emotion, Gill tearfully sang through several lines with Loveless comforting him.
After Pastor Mike Wilson recalled several moments with George Jones, Alan Jackson came out onto the Opry stage. The ceremony closed out with the ever-fitting George Jones classic, "He Stopped Loving Her Today."
As loved ones reflect on the times of George Jones, everyone has that special memory of him. He touched our lives, whether it was the music, the stories, or friendship. There will never be another George Jones as we all wonder the same thing he asked, "who's gonna fill their shoes?"
