In February 2016, something very special happened at the Grand Ole Opry, a famous place where country music stars perform. Josh Turner, a well-known singer, didn’t sing one of his popular songs that night. Instead, he brought someone very dear to him onto the stage—his wife’s 98-year-old grandmother, Lois Cunningham. She was about to do something amazing: play the piano for everyone there.
Josh smiled and told the crowd, “This is Lois Cunningham, my wife’s grandmother. She’s 98 years old, and tonight she’s going to play the piano on the Grand Ole Opry stage for the first time.” Then Lois walked out, looking calm and happy. She sat at the piano and began to play a beautiful song called “How Great Thou Art.” It’s a song about love for God, and Lois played it with so much heart.
There were no loud drums or bright lights—just Lois and her piano. The music was soft and peaceful, and everyone in the room listened quietly. Her fingers moved gently over the keys, telling a story of faith and love through every note. When she finished, the crowd clapped and cheered so loudly! They stood up to show how much they loved her music. Josh gave her a big hug, and everyone could see how proud he was.
That special moment was recorded and shared on the Grand Ole Opry’s YouTube channel. Millions of people—over 12 million—watched Lois play, and they all felt the same joy as the people in the Opry that night. A 98-year-old grandmother had shared something so beautiful with the world.
Lois loved music her whole life. For many years, she taught others how to play music, spreading happiness wherever she went. She also loved going to church, and “How Great Thou Art” was a perfect song for her because it showed how much she believed in God’s love. Even after her big night at the Opry, Lois kept inspiring people. When she turned 100, her hometown in Valdosta, Georgia, celebrated her with a special day called “Lois Cunningham Day” to honor her kindness and talent.
Lois passed away in August 2018 at the age of 100, surrounded by her family. Though she’s no longer here, her music and love live on. Her performance at the Grand Ole Opry reminds us that you’re never too old to share what makes you special. If you watch her play, you’ll understand why everyone clapped so hard and why her song touched so many hearts.
