April 6th, 1998 is the day we bid farewell to “First Lady of Country Music” Tammy Wynette. In her memory there was an emotional service held days later full of friends, prayers, tears and, of course, inspiring music.
Friends, family and loved ones all gathered at Ryman Auditorium in downtown Nashville that Thursday, a place where Tammy had performed many times throughout her years in country music. The ceremony was broadcasted around the world for fans and friends alike to share in their grieving. Especially touching that day were the kind words and beautiful songs country singer Lorrie Morgan shared.
“This is one of the first songs I ever sang on the Grand Ole Opry,” Lorrie says, fighting back tears. “And this is, by request, this is ‘Stand By Your Man‘.”
Tammy recorded her hit song ‘Stand By Your Man’ in 1968. It was #1 on the Billboard charts for three weeks and had wide cross-over success on the pop charts both in the states and throughout the world.
About 2,000 people lined up before the memorial service to pay their respects to the ‘First Lady of Country’. Tammy had been in poor health for many months before her death. She passed away at home in Nashville on April 6, 1998 from a blood clot. She was 55 years old. She is survived by her late husband George Richey, five daughters, one son and seven grandchildren.
Rest in peace, Tammy Wynette (May 5, 1942, – April 6, 1998).
