“The Possum” passed away on April 26, 2013, at the age of 81.
He was hospitalized at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for a high fever and irregular blood pressure. Shortly following the death of Jones, Jackson shared with TMZ his heartbreak surrounding the passing of his dear friend.
“Well, heaven better get ready for some great country music,” he said, according to TMZ. “While George was known for his wild and crazy days, I’ve known him for 25 years as a friend. He had grown into a real good man. Of course, he will always be the greatest singer and interpreter of real country music – there’ll never be another.”
Jones and Jackson were longtime friends, making each other’s acquaintance a quarter of a century prior when Jackson made a guest appearance on Jones’ The Bradley Barn Sessions.
Jackson solidified their friendship at the 1999 CMA Awards when he interrupted his performance to sing Jones’ “Choices,” which the Academy hadn’t allowed The Possum to perform.
Jackson honored Jones at his funeral on May 2, 2013.
Jackson’s delivery of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” was nothing of perfection, the singer paying homage to Jones through a performance highly reminiscent of the icon’s vocals. Jackson closed out the funeral service at the Grand Ole Opry with his performance of the emotionally wrenching song, noticeably bringing a tear to the eyes of everyone in the audience, including himself.
At the very end of the song, Jackson took his hat off and placed it over his heart, further showing his respect for Jones.
You can watch Jackson’s performance of “He Stopped Loving Her Today” in the video below.
