I'm saddened to report the passing of a good friend of Jim's, and a very talented songwriter, John D. Loudermilk, who wrote many famous songs recorded by a wide range of artists, even the Beatles.

His wife, Susan, is a dear friend and I extend my condolences to her family. She had told me just last week her husband was not well, but I didn't realize how ill.

John was present (though not credited) at both of Jim's Christmas recording sessions, judging from the photos taken on both those nights.

Also, he can be seen early on in the crash scene video I posted. He was one of the first to go looking for the plane.

John could write all types of music and he got a kick out of the story I told him one time how, when our daughter Sara, was a young child, she heard a song by Sue Thompson on an oldies station on our car radio, called "Norman." She loved the song so much she insisted I call the station to find out who the artist was, so she could acquire a copy. It turned out John D. Loudermilk composed it. So his music touched all ages.

The Loudermilks lost their Tennessee home in a major fire some years ago, but they steadfastly remained strong in faith, and rebuilt it. I regret I never had a chance to accept their invitation to stay with them when I came to Nashville.

To read about this remarkable and very kind man, click the link below.