George Jones Funeral Details Announced

UPDATE: Jones’ funeral will take place on Thursday, May 2nd at The Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, Tenn., where the late country singer was a member since 1956. The service, which will begin at 10 a.m., will be open to members of the public.

A private visitation for family, friends, and fellow performers will take place the day before.

"George would have wanted his fans and friends everywhere to be able to come and pay their respects along with his family," his publicist, Kirt Webster, said in a statement to ET.

Jones' wife, Nancy also thanked everyone for the support she's been receiving in the days since his passing.

"Thanks to George’s friends, fans, and loved ones for the outpouring of love at this terrible time," she said. "I love you all."

The family has asked that contributions be made to the Grand Ole Opry trust fund in lieu of flowers.

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Country music legend George Jones passed away on Friday, April 26, 2013 after being hospitalized for a fever and irregular blood pressure. The Country Music Hall of Famer was 81.

Jones, born on Sept. 12, 1931 in Saratoga, Texas, is best known for his songs He Stopped Loving Her Today, Walk Through This World With Me and Tender Years.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years Nancy Jones, his sister Helen Scroggins and his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

The country music community has taken to Twitter to express their condolences following news of Jones' death. Here are a few of those tweets:

Tim McGraw: "Gone ...... George Jones ...man he was country music."

Jason Aldean: "So sad to hear about the passing of George Jones today. Country music has lost one of our pioneers and legendary icons. You will never be forgotten."

LeAnn Rimes: "So sad we lost "the possum" today. R.I.P George Jones and know we didn't stop loving you today. You will live on forever in our hearts."

Jennifer Nettles: "I'll never forget the first time I heard the story in "He Stopped Loving Her Today". RIP George Jones. Country Legend. U will be missed."

John Rich: "Every serious country artist in the past 30 years has some #georgejones dna in their blood and music. My God. We've lost our Elvis."

Keith Urban: "If I'm blessed enough to make it there, I look forward to you giving me the grand tour. Rest in peace George Jones!!!!!"

Martina McBride: "So sad to hear about George Jones . His voice and music will be with us forever. Thoughts go out to all his family, friends and fans."

Faith Hill: "We lost one of the best voices God created this morning. Our hearts are saddened to hear that George Jones has passed away..."

Chuck Wicks: "George Jones may you rest in peace buddy."

Blake Shelton: "Really REALLY bad news. We've lost a country music legend. And I've lost a hero and a friend. Goodbye George Jones..."

Carrie Underwood: "Prayers going to George Jones' family today. Rest in peace, George. You are loved and will be missed greatly."