Reba McEntire Mourns Beloved Country Music Trailblazer

The iconic entertainer paid tribute to legendary musician Jerry Kennedy, who passed away at 85.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Reba McEntire took to social media to honor her longtime friend, mentor, and collaborator Jerry Kennedy, a renowned musician who worked with many country music greats and passed away at the age of 85 in Nashville. McEntire praised Kennedy as a "great friend, mentor, a patient teacher and a creative producer" with whom she cherished working over the years.

Why it matters

Jerry Kennedy was a highly respected figure in the country music industry, having worked with iconic artists like Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and Tammy Wynette over his decades-long career. His passing is mourned by many in the music community, including his close friend and collaborator Reba McEntire.

The details

Kennedy died on February 11 in Nashville at the age of 85. McEntire had worked with Kennedy on her albums "Feel the Fire" in 1980 and "Heart to Heart" in 1981. In her tribute, McEntire called Kennedy a "great friend, mentor, a patient teacher and a creative producer" and said she cherished the years they got to work together.

  • Jerry Kennedy died on February 11, 2026 in Nashville.
  • Reba McEntire posted her tribute to Kennedy on Instagram on February 13, 2026.

The players

Reba McEntire

An iconic country music singer and entertainer who collaborated with Jerry Kennedy on several of her albums.

Jerry Kennedy

A legendary musician who worked with many country music greats over his decades-long career, including Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and Tammy Wynette.

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What they’re saying

“The first time I heard Jerry Kennedy play was on Jeannie C. Riley's 'Harper Valley PTA.' Little did I know I would one day get to work with him.”

— Reba McEntire (Instagram)

“He was a great friend, mentor, a patient teacher and a creative producer. I cherish my years getting to work with him and know his family. My prayers go out to everyone who will miss him as much as I will.”

— Reba McEntire (Instagram)

“Legendary. From the first year I started working in Country Radio, in the 70's, I knew about Jerry Kennedy. Because great musicians made sure that I knew about their idol. Rest in peace, Sir.”

— Facebook User (Facebook)

“It's so wonderful that he meant so much, to you, and that you appreciated him, so much, and that you honored him, with this post!!! R.I.P. Jerry Kennedy!!! You were so very talented, and will be missed!!”

— Facebook User (Facebook)

The takeaway

Jerry Kennedy's passing is a significant loss for the country music community, as he was a highly respected and influential figure who worked with some of the genre's greatest artists over his long career. Reba McEntire's heartfelt tribute to her friend and collaborator highlights the deep impact Kennedy had on those he worked with and the music he helped create.