[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992-1993, Book II)]
[November 23, 1992]
[Page 2169]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on the Death of Roy Acuff
November 23, 1992

    Barbara and I mourn the death of our long-time friend and the King 
of Country Music. Roy Acuff showed that America loves country music 
because country music loves America. He helped the Grand Ole Opry become 
America's heirloom of the heart.
    Roy made his Opry debut in 1938 and played it nearly every weekend. 
Often, Barbara and I visited him and heard Roy sing ``Great Speckled 
Bird'' or ``Wabash Cannonball.'' We marveled at his talent. Even more, 
we cherished his kindness, modesty, love of life, and loyalty to 
friends.
    Roy said, ``I want to go down as a gentleman in country music. 
That's all I care to be.'' Our great and good friend achieved that goal 
and more. Roy Acuff leaves what for 89 years he lived, a touch of the 
American dream.