Reba McEntire Honors Late Musician Jerry Kennedy with Heartfelt Tribute

Iconic entertainer Reba McEntire took to social media to honor a beloved colleague after learning of his death.

Musician Jerry Kennedy died at the age of 85 in Nashville, Tennessee on February 11. Over the course of his decades-long career, Kennedy worked with greats such as Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and Tammy Wynette.

McEntire had also worked with Kennedy, and on February 13, she took to Instagram to pay tribute to him.

In her caption, McEntire wrote, “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.”

McEntire continued, “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,” McEntire added.

She closed her caption by writing, “RIP my friend. Happy Trails to you, ’til we meet again.” McEntire’s post included an iconic photo of Kennedy taken early in his career, and showing him recording with Riley.

Kennedy worked with McEntire on her albums Feel the Fire, which was released in 1980, as well as on her 1981 album, Heart to Heart.

Dozens of McEntire’s Instagram followers left emoji-filled comments on her post to show their love and support. McEntire also shared her tribute on X and Facebook, and her fans mourned Kennedy right alongside her.

“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,” one Facebook user wrote.

Another fan on Facebook commented, “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!!”

This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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