The oldest living member of the Grand Ole Opry – Stu Phillips – has died at the age of 92. Phillips was a member of the Opry for 58 years.
Phillips released his first album in 1965 and became a member of the Opry in 1967.
The Montreal native died on Christmas Day in Nashville. An official cause of death was not revealed.
Former band member Roger Ball took to social media to express his sentiments saying, Top of Form
“I am very saddened to learn Stu Phillips passed today. He was a great singer and a very kind gentleman. I was a member of his band, the Balladiers, back in the 1970s. Stu was my first Grand Ole Opry gig. Rest in peace my friend.”
Canadian radio personality Johnny Maple Leaf Woodlock also took to social media to speak on Phillips saying, “lost A Legend This Evening my friend and fellow Canadian Country Music Pioneer Stu Phillips has passed away at age 92 over the years Stu had been a great friend and supporter of my radio show and career having appeared on the program several times over the years. RIP STU PHILLIPS THE TRAVELING BALLADEER.”
Along with being a member of the Grand Ole Opry; Phillips was inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.
Stuart Phillips was born January 19, 1933 in Saint-Eustache, Quebec (near Montreal). His musical career began as a radio broadcaster while he was still in his teens. He moved to Nashville in 1965 where he launched his musical career to find success on both sides of the border.
Phillips and his wife owned the Long Hollow Winery. He was also an ordained Episcopalian minister.
He became an American citizen in 1998.
Phillips is survived by his wife Aldona, son Joel, and daughter-in-law Benita.