A statue of George Jones was unveiled at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium, with widow Nancy leading the tribute to honor the country legend’s legacy.
On June 3, 2025, a life-size bronze statue of country music legend George Jones was unveiled outside Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium.
The tribute, part of the Ryman’s Icon Walk, was spearheaded by Jones’ widow, Nancy, who helped design the statue to depict George in his early 60s — a period she felt he’d have chosen himself.
The statue features his trademark look: styled hair, sideburns, a Nudie suit, and guitar.
The event was attended by around 100 people, including family, friends, and fans. Nancy expressed pride in honoring George’s legacy, noting the Ryman was one place he remained sober due to its reverence as the “Mother Church of Country Music.”
Fellow artist Jamey Johnson remembered George’s larger-than-life persona and legendary stories, including his infamous lawnmower liquor run. George Jones, who overcame substance abuse after a 1999 car accident, passed away in 2013 at age 81.
Despite past personal struggles, Jones’ music left a lasting legacy, with chart-topping hits like “He Stopped Loving Her Today” and honors such as the Country Music Hall of Fame induction in 1992.
His memory continues to be celebrated, including recent tributes by Garth Brooks and others.
Nancy, now working to reopen the George Jones Museum, said, “I don’t want people to forget him… I love him. I did, and I still do, and I always will.”
Source PEOPLE
