Grand Ole Opry host Bill Cody who was on WSM Radio for decades has died at 67.
He worked with many stars over the course of his career including Dolly Parton and Kelsea Ballerini.
Tributes have already been shared by country music singers Carly Pearce and Randy Travis.
His death was announced by WSM Radio on social media after he began suffering from heart issues in May.
‘It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our dear friend and beloved WSM voice, Bill Cody,’ a statement from WSM read. They also called Cody ‘a singular presence on WSM-AM Nashville for more than three decades.’
WSM’s statement also read, ‘Bill’s voice also became synonymous with the Grand Ole Opry, where he frequently served as host, including Opry Country Classics. His work extended across television and syndicated radio, bringing country music to audiences far beyond Nashville.’
Grand Ole Opry host Bill Cody who was on WSM Radio for decades has died at 67. Seen in 2019
He worked with many stars over the course of his career including Dolly Parton and Kelsea Ballerini. Seen in 2017
He worked with Dolly Parton, left, and Kelsea Ballerini, right
In May his daughter Hannah Davis shared on Facebook that her father ‘was admitted to the ICU in heart failure and kidney failure.’
She added, ‘After weeks of being on a roller coaster of emotions, tests, dialysis, medications, steps forwards and steps backwards, it was determined earlier this week that his only option for survival would be a double transplant, heart and kidney.
‘We need a miracle and we know God is able. Please, if you’re able, stop and pray for these things. Our family can’t thank you enough. We love you all.’
The Alabama native was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 2008.
He also received a star on the Music City Walk of Fame in 2024.
There are also plans to posthumously induct him into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame in late 2026, according to Variety.
Cody, left, greets Trace Adkins on the red carpet before a Grand Ole Opry show in 2016
The star, far right, with Ronnie Dunn, left, and Kix Brooks of Brooks & Dunn in 2019
There have already been plenty of celebrity tributes online.
Kelsea Ballerini commented, ‘The kindest and most genuine soul. a love for everyone. what a loss. you will be missed by many, bill.’
Randy Travis said Cody ‘will always be the Rock of Gibraltar in country music,’ adding, ‘We send prayers of strength and understanding to his family as they send their angel back home… thank you for sharing him with us for so many years.’
Dierks Bentley wrote, ‘Country music has lost one of its pillars. Bill was just as important to the fabric of our music and city as any artist, songwriter or musician.’
Emily Ann Roberts said, ‘The impact Bill Cody made on country music and its artists is too great to be measured … it will never be the same without him. I’m so thankful I had the honor to know him.’
Carly Pearce wrote, ‘We love you Bill. ❤️.
Joe Dee Messina shared, ‘My sweet friend! I’m so grateful that I got to see you and spend time with you yesterday. You were always a safe place for me. I love you so much. I will miss you, for now. I find peace in knowing you had such a rich relationship with Jesus and I will see you in the midst of Gods glory.’
Dolly PartonKelsea Ballerini
