When the legendary George Jones passed away in 2013, the biggest names in country music came together to honor the man whose voice defined the genre like no other.
Originally slated as the grand finale of George Jones’ Farewell Tour at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, the event never happened as planned. Jones was admitted to the hospital with a fever and unsteady blood pressure, and he slipped away on April 26, 2013. Yet, his loved ones and fellow artists refused to let his legacy fade quietly. They transformed the evening into a one-of-a-kind celebration titled Playin’ Possum! The Final No Show Tribute To George Jones.
The night roared to life with a lineup featuring Alabama, Dierks Bentley, Reba McEntire, Travis Tritt, Vince Gill, Miranda Lambert, Alan Jackson, and a slew of other stars, plus a few unexpected drop-ins. They breathed new energy into Jones’ timeless classics, from the defiant “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair” to the soulful “When The Last Curtain Falls” and the high-octane “The Race Is On.” But the moment that stole the show came at the end, when Alan Jackson stepped up to deliver “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” widely hailed as one of country music’s greatest masterpieces.
A Bond Forged Across Generations
Though George Jones and Alan Jackson rose to fame in different chapters of country history, their paths crossed often, weaving a friendship that stood the test of time. Jackson, a kid from Georgia, grew up with Jones’ records spinning in the background, idolizing the man they called The Possum. Their connection ran deeper than most, built on mutual respect and shared roots. So, it felt only right that Jackson would be the one to close out the tribute with that iconic ballad.
Then, something unforgettable unfolded. Right before the final chorus, Jackson paused and turned the night into pure magic. He called Nancy, George’s widow and partner of over 30 years, to join him onstage. “Let’s raise one up for George,” he said, welcoming her to the microphone. Together, they carried the song home, their voices blending in a heartfelt salute. The arena was a sea of tears, every soul moved by the raw emotion of the moment. You can catch that stirring tribute in the video below.
