Update 6/16Jimmy will be laid to rest in a mausoleum shaped like a grand piano. His widow, Donna Dean, says he purchased it several years ago. The inscription will be his name, birth and death dates, and the line "Here lies one hell of a man" (of course, from Big Bad John). The piano shaped tomb will look out onto the James River in Varnia, Virginia. Mrs. Dean says, "He'd always said he would never want to leave his beloved Chaffin's Bluff."
He died Sunday at the age of 81. There aren't many details yet on his death or funeral arrangements, but reportedly, a service is being planned for the Nelson Funeral Home in Richmond.
Of course, we all remember the Country Music Hall of Famer for "Big Bad John," and his yummy Jimmy Dean Sausage.
Earlier this year he was inducted in the Country Music Hall of Fame, and he'll be formally welcomed later this year.
Last year he was inducted into the Meat Industry Hall of Fame.
Condolences to his family and friends.