Merle Kilgore’s management of Hank Williams Jr.’s career brought him accolades along the corridors of Music Row—including CMA “Manager Of The Year.” He served on the CMA Board Of Directors, was elected Vice President of CMA, as well as President of both the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International and the Nashville Songwriter’s Foundation. He served two terms as President of ROPE. Merle became an Honorary State Senator in the State of Tennessee, was inducted into the Louisiana Hall of Fame, and even made the hall of fame in his old high school alma mater—Byrd High-- back in Shreveport. “Senator Kilgore has had an illustrious life—from double dating with pal Elvis Presley to acting roles in seven movie productions.
Through it all, Merle continued not only to be one of the country music industry’s most successful personal managers—but an artist in his own right. His acting roles, accolades as a performer, and songbook as a multi-million selling writer would take volumes to record.
Merle Kilgore was a friend to all within the sound of his voice and he continued throughout life to encourage those within the family of Country Music to love what they did. His legacy will continue with the legions of friends and fans around the world who will insure Merle Kilgore’s legend will forever remain among those of the true giants in the music industry
Visitation will take place February 14 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Hendersonville Memory Gardens and Funeral Home in Hendersonville, TN. The funeral will be at noon on February 15 at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, with visitation from 11 a.m. to noon.
Burial will be at Hendersonville Memory Gardens following services.