**Grand Ole Opry Legend Stu Phillips Has Passed Away at 92**
Stu Phillips, the trailblazing Canadian country artist and longtime Grand Ole Opry member, has died at the age of 92. The news was shared on Christmas Day by Tracy Pitcox of Heart of Texas Records, who wrote, “The eldest member of the Grand Ole Opry, Stu Phillips, passed away today at the age of 92.” The Opry later confirmed his passing with a tribute image of Phillips performing on its historic stage, adding, “Thank you, Stu Phillips, who was our oldest living Opry member, for your music, friendship, and 58 years as part of the Opry family.”
### A Six-Decade Opry Legacy
Phillips joined the Grand Ole Opry on June 1, 1967, marking an incredible 58 years with the institution. Born January 19, 1933, near Montreal in Saint-Eustache, Quebec, he became the most senior member of the Opry at the time of his death.
His musical journey began during his teens when he performed on radio shows in Montreal. He soon toured fairs and rodeos across Western Canada. By the late 1950s, Phillips was hosting popular programs for the CBC, including *The Outrider* and *Red River Jamboree*.
In the 1960s, Phillips found success as both a recording artist and songwriter. His No. 1 Canadian hit “Kathy Keep Playing” landed him a contract with RCA Records and prompted his move to Nashville. There, he scored several American chart hits, including “Vin Rosé,” “Bracero,” and the Top 20 single “Juanita Jones.”
### From Canada to Country Music History
Phillips’ early albums, such as *Echoes of the Canadian Foothills* and *A Visit to British Columbia*, blended folklore with heartfelt country storytelling. His smooth baritone and love for narrative helped bridge the Canadian and Nashville country music traditions at a time when few artists managed to make that leap.
Beyond the Opry stage, Phillips also hosted the syndicated TV variety series *Music Place* in the 1970s and toured extensively, from performing for troops in Vietnam with the USO to stages across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Although he became an American citizen in 1998, Phillips remained a beloved member of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.
### A Life Beyond the Stage
Later in life, Stu Phillips became an ordained Episcopalian minister. He also owned Long Hollow Winery in Goodlettsville, Tennessee, for many years. Today, his son Joel and daughter-in-law Benita continue to operate the family business.
Former bandmate Roger Ball paid tribute to Phillips on Facebook, writing, “I am very saddened to learn Stu Phillips passed away today. He was a great singer and a very kind gentleman. Stu was my first Grand Ole Opry gig. Rest in peace, my friend.”
### Remembering a Gentleman of Country Music
From his early days on Canadian radio to decades performing on the Opry stage, Stu Phillips embodied grace, faith, and the quiet steadiness that defined a generation of country performers.
He leaves behind a lasting legacy of music and a powerful reminder that one voice, shared with heart and humility, can echo across borders and generations.
—
**Read More:**
– [See Inside Jeannie Seely’s All-Star Memorial at the Grand Ole Opry (Pictures)](#)
– [31 Country Stars You Won’t Believe Aren’t Grand Ole Opry Members](#)
https://tasteofcountry.com/stu-phillips-grand-ole-opry-legend-dead-92/