Country Stars Release Statements on Passing of George Jones

Today, upon learning of the passing of George Jones, the following country music stars released statements expressing their love and adoration for the "Possum":

Ricky Skaggs
"THE Country Music singer of all time. The words 'Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes' has never been more true than today."

Larry Gatlin
"Years ago someone asked Coach Bum Phillips if Earl Campbell was in a class by himself. Bum replied, 'Well if he ain't, it sure don't take long to check roll.' I say the same of the late great George Jones. Rest in peace POSSUM. You were always kind to me... THANKS."

Sammy Kershaw
"George Jones has been a major part of my personal and professional life for a long time. I have been inspired by his music for the last 50 years and for 42 of those, I had the pleasure of knowing him personally and professionally. He was IT to me. George was and will always be my guy. I am luckier than a lot of people on this Earth because God let me be a part of George's life and him a part of mine. And on this day, his song couldn't be more true: 'He Stopped Loving Her Today.'"

Mel Tillis
"I met George when he came to Nashville and we became good friends. I'm really going to miss him. The world has lost the greatest singer to have ever lived."

Ray Stevens
"George Jones may be gone but his music will live on forever. What a great voice and a great friend."

Pam Tillis
"Country music as we know it would be vastly different if it weren't for George Jones. He's in our musical DNA. All country artists will have to figure out how to even begin to live up to his kind of legacy. 'Honky Tonk Heaven,' here he comes... though we're not ready to let go."

Restless Heart
"The greatest most soulful voice in history is gone. RIP George Jones... the guys of Restless Heart will miss you greatly."

The Marshall Tucker Band
"We met George many times over the past 50 years. This is a terrible loss for his family, friends, the country music industry and the world. He's the most identifiable and inspirational country artist that has ever lived.
-Doug Gray

Billy Dean
"George Jones was a mentor and a giant to my generation of country singers. He was there for my first Ralph Emery Show appearance. Backstage I was so nervous and expressed concern to George that if Ralph Emery didn't like me, my career may never get off the ground. The first thing George said to Ralph when they went on air was how nice of guy he thought I was. George Jones was our country music soul singer, no doubt. Who's gonna fill those shoes?"

The Bellamy Brothers
"We've lost one of the greatest voices in history. Prayers and condolences to his family."

Sweethearts of the Rodeo
"Sharing the same vocal booth with George Jones on 'Traveller's Prayer' was without a doubt THE highlight of our career. He was a true legend, generous and supportive and he will live on and on in our hearts."

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