BBC

The funeral of country music legend George Jones will be held at the famous Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville and is open to fans, it has been announced.

“George would have wanted his fans and friends everywhere to be able to come and pay their respects along with his family,” publicist Kirt Webster said.

The ceremony will be held on Thursday, a day after a private visitation for family, friends and fellow performers.

Jones’ hits included He Stopped Loving Her Today. He died on Friday aged 81.

Mr Webster said he died after being admitted to hospital for fever and irregular blood pressure.

In a statement, Jones’ widow Nancy said: “Thanks to George’s friends, fans, and loved ones for the outpouring of love at this terrible time. I love you all.”

The Grand Ole Opry House has a capacity of 4,400 and is home to America’s longest running radio show, titled The Grand Ole Opry.

Jones joined the cast of the Grand Ole Opry in 1956 and went on to enjoy success with hits including White Lightning, A Good Year for the Roses, Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes, The Grand Tour and Tennessee Whiskey.

After Jones’ death, country star Garth Brooks was among those paying tribute, saying: “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.”

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