Introduction
Vince Gill and Patty Loveless Deliver Emotional Tribute at George Jones’ Funeral with “Go Rest High On That Mountain”
On a somber but unforgettable day in Nashville, two of country music’s most revered voices—Vince Gill and Patty Loveless—came together to honor the life and legacy of George Jones, delivering a tear-filled, soul-stirring performance of “Go Rest High On That Mountain” at the country legend’s funeral.
Held at the Grand Ole Opry House on May 2, 2013, the memorial service was attended by thousands, including country stars, close friends, and devoted fans. It was a farewell worthy of “The Possum,” as Jones was affectionately known—a man whose voice defined traditional country music for generations.
But among the many tributes, it was the duet by Gill and Loveless that pierced the hearts of everyone in the room.
As Gill began to sing the opening lines of “Go Rest High On That Mountain”, his voice wavered with visible emotion. Written by Gill after the death of his brother and later completed following the passing of fellow country artist Keith Whitley, the song has long been a symbol of grief, love, and spiritual hope in the country music world.
“I know your life on earth was troubled / And only you could know the pain…”
The lyrics carried added weight in the context of George Jones’ passing, reflecting both the struggles and the redemption that marked the iconic singer’s life.
Loveless joined Gill on the chorus, her voice rich and steady, offering a sense of comfort and strength. The harmonies between the two longtime friends were flawless, but it was the raw vulnerability in Gill’s performance that brought tears to the eyes of everyone watching.
At one point during the song, Gill was so overcome with emotion that he briefly stepped back, wiping away tears. Loveless, ever the professional and a comforting presence, placed a hand on his shoulder and helped carry the song forward.
The crowd, including fellow artists such as Alan Jackson, Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, and former First Lady Laura Bush, sat in complete silence, visibly moved by the power of the moment.
“It wasn’t just a performance,” one attendee later said. “It was a prayer.”
After the final note faded, the entire auditorium stood in a long, heartfelt standing ovation—not just for Gill and Loveless, but for the man they were honoring.
The performance has since become one of the most talked-about and rewatched moments from the memorial service, capturing both the personal loss felt by those closest to George Jones and the communal mourning of the entire country music world.
Vince Gill and Patty Loveless’ rendition of “Go Rest High On That Mountain” was more than a tribute—it was a healing moment, a farewell, and a reminder of the deep emotional power music can hold.
For a man like George Jones—who sang about life, loss, and love with unmatched conviction—it was a goodbye that couldn’t have been more fitting.