George Jones Dies at 81: Carrie Underwood, Brad Paisley and More Stars Remember Country Legend

Plus, Billy Ray Cyrus, Blake Shelton, Dierks Bentley, Sheryl Crow and more musicians memorialize baritone

By Rebecca Macatee Apr 26, 2013 4:31 PMTags
Carrie Underwood, George JonesTwitter

George Jones brought a lot to country music throughout his illustrious career.

And when the 81-year-old passed away Friday, his loss was immediately felt. Carrie Underwood tweeted a sweet photo of herself and Jones, writing, "Happy memory of me and George. You may have left us, but your music and your legacy never will. #Legend."

Garth Brooks told Tulsa World in a statement: "The greatest voice to ever grace country music will never die. Jones has a place in every heart that ever loved any kind of music."

See what more celebs had to say about the legendary singer.

Blake Shelton: Really REALLY bad news. We've lost a country music legend. And I've lost a hero and a friend. Goodbye George Jones...

Keith Urban: If I'm blessed enough to make it there, I look forward to you giving me the grand tour. Rest in peace George Jones!!!!! –KU

Brad Paisley: My friend,the greatest singer of all time,has passed.To those who knew him,our lives were full. To those of you who don't: discover him now.

Jennifer Nettles: I'll never forget the first time I heard the story in "He Stopped Loving Her Today". RIP George Jones. Country Legend. U will be missed.

Bo Bice: George Jones passed away this morning. We will miss ya Possum. There will never be another!! Make them angels weep up there GJ.

Sheryl Crow: Such a sad day... May you Rest in Peace George Jones.

Dierks Bentley: nancy and @gjpossum had a beautiful marriage and special relationship. love you nancy. long live the possum. gonna miss my buddy. real sad.

Rob Thomas: R.I.P. to a true country/american legend, George Jones. thanx for the music.

Billy Ray Cyrus: I'm stunned and deeply saddened to learn of the passing of my good friend George Jones.The very definition of a legend. Thoughts and prayers

Trace Adkins: George Jones was my friend, and I loved him. Trace Adkins