Bill Cody, the longtime Grand Ole Opry announcer and Country Radio Hall of Famer, whose career spans nearly 50 years on the airwaves, has died after a period of declining health, WSM Radio announced late June 9.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our dear friend and beloved WSM voice, Bill Cody,” the outlet said in a social media post.
“A singular presence on WSM-AM Nashville for more than three decades, Bill welcomed listeners each morning on Coffee, Country & Cody with a broad smile, a conversational ease, and an unerring ability to make both artists and audiences feel at home. He joined WSM in 1994 and had Charlie Daniels as his first in-studio guest. He built more than a morning show; he created a gathering place rooted in his deep love for country music and the people behind it.
“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.
“Inspired early on by time spent at a small Kentucky radio station with his father, Bill’s passion for broadcasting became a lifelong calling that ultimately led him to the city he once dreamed about as a young boy.
“His contributions to broadcasting were recognized with his induction into the Country Radio Hall of Fame, a star on the Music City Walk of Fame, and his forthcoming, posthumous induction into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame.
“More than his accolades, Bill will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and genuine gift for connection. He was a trusted voice, a generous friend, and a constant companion to generations of listeners.
“In the days ahead, WSM will honor Bill with a special marathon of unforgettable moments from Coffee, Country & Cody, celebrating a legacy that will forever be part of our station and our community.
More: Grand Ole Opry’s Bill Cody in critical condition, daughter says in appeal for prayers
As one of the most familiar and beloved voices in country music broadcasting, Cody has helped shape the soundtrack of Nashville for decades.
His career spans nearly 50 years on the airwaves, including roles in nationally syndicated radio, television, and film, and more than 30 years as host of WSM Radio’s flagship morning show, Coffee, Country & Cody.
Over the years, Cody has earned multiple nominations from the CMA, ACM and Billboard for broadcasting excellence, WSM Radio reports.
He was recently honored with a star on the Music City Walk of Fame in the fall of 2024 and was inducted into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 2008.
Cody and his high school sweetheart, Rebecca, raised three children and made their home outside Cross Plains, Tennessee, in Robertson County.
Katie Nixon can be reached at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Bill Cody, longtime Grand Ole Opry announcer, has died
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