Don Williams, who parlayed a smooth baritone singing style into country music stardom, died on Sept. 8 following a short illness at age 78. Don was a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and won the CMA Male Vocalist of the Year award in 1978.
Many country stars shared their remembrances of “The Gentle Giant” on social media, and we’ve included some of them below.
I cannot put into words the depth of sadness I feel right now at hearing of Don’s passing. – KU pic.twitter.com/AqKbrOt8yR
— Keith Urban (@KeithUrban) September 9, 2017
Don Williams had a voice like the handshake from an old friend-just listened to GOOD OLE BOYS, and on and on! What a great soul – RIP Don
— Kix Brooks (@KixBrooks) September 9, 2017
One of my fondest memories in my entire career was when Mom and I opened for Don Williams. He truly was a gentle giant. #TheEndOfAnEra pic.twitter.com/RzRdqr5dl2
— Wynonna (@Wynonna) September 10, 2017
Sad day in country music. I played Don Williams all the way home from NYC. He was grand. Rest peacefully stud. You’ll be missed.-T
— Toby Keith (@TobyKeithMusic) September 9, 2017
God Bless Don Williams, Troy Gentry and Country Music. pic.twitter.com/wb393PRGdw
— Jake Owen (@jakeowen) September 9, 2017
RIP Don Williams. 100% class and spirit. Said so much with so little. He was and will always be a blessing in country music.
— Brothers Osborne (@brothersosborne) September 9, 2017
Country music is at loss today. Our prayers are with the families of Don Williams & Troy Gentry. It’s a sad day.
— Luke Bryan (@LukeBryanOnline) September 8, 2017
Sad day in country music. Don Williams and Troy gentry will be missed. In shock. Thoughts and prayers to the family of a hero and a buddy. ?
— Justin Moore (@JustinColeMoore) September 8, 2017
Sending my sincere and heartfelt prayers to the families & friends of Don Williams and @T_RoyMG.
— Kenny Rogers (@_KennyRogers) September 8, 2017
What a sad day for country music. Don Williams was a legend, and for good reason. So many beautiful songs.
— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) September 8, 2017
Also just hearing about the passing of Don Williams.. terrible day.
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) September 8, 2017
And Don Williams has passed… what a legend… this is truly a sad day for country music #RIP
— ChrisYoungMusic (@ChrisYoungMusic) September 8, 2017
The world changed today. Country music lost both a Friend and a Hero. Troy Gentry and Don Williams, you both will be dearly missed..
— Lee Brice (@leebrice) September 8, 2017
I’m speechless. Pray with me for the family of Don Williams & especially the family of Troy Gentry. It’s a heavy day for country music.??✝️
— Josh Turner (@joshturnermusic) September 8, 2017
I was saddened to hear of Don Williams passing today.His simple music, gentle voice & beautiful songs will live on forever. RIP Gentle Giant
— Ricky Skaggs (@RickySkaggs) September 8, 2017
photo courtesy CMA
