NASHVILLE — The country music community is mourning the loss of Bill Cody, the longtime radio personality, Grand Ole Opry announcer, and WSM-AM morning show host, who passed away Tuesday in Nashville at the age of 67. His death marks the end of a celebrated broadcasting career that spanned decades and left a lasting impact on country music and its listeners.

Cody had recently faced serious health challenges. In late May, his daughter shared that he was in critical condition and in need of both heart and kidney transplants. Following his passing, his family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, noting that they found comfort in the prayers and encouragement they received during his final weeks.

For more than 30 years, Cody was one of the most recognizable voices in country radio. After joining WSM-AM in 1994, he became the longtime host of “Coffee, Country & Cody,” where he interviewed countless artists, songwriters, and industry figures. His warm, conversational style and deep appreciation for country music earned him respect from both listeners and performers.

In addition to his morning show work, Cody served as a Grand Ole Opry announcer and hosted “Opry Country Classics,” helping preserve and promote traditional country music. His work extended into television and syndicated programming, further solidifying his role as a prominent advocate for the genre.

Throughout his career, Cody received numerous honors, including induction into the Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame in 2008 and a star on the Music City Walk of Fame in 2024. He was also scheduled to be posthumously inducted into the Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame later this year.

Tributes from across the music industry have highlighted his influence and character. Garth Brooks praised his passion for country music, Dierks Bentley described him as a foundational figure in the genre, and Carly Pearce remembered him as both an industry legend and a personal friend. Patrick Moore, CEO of Opry Entertainment, also honored Cody’s kindness, enthusiasm, and lasting contribution to Nashville’s music community.

Born Trent Clutts in Lebanon, Kentucky, Cody discovered broadcasting early in life while accompanying his father, a Southern Baptist minister, to a local radio station. He began his professional radio career at age 17 and later adopted the name Bill Cody in tribute to “Buffalo Bill” Cody, his childhood inspiration.

Over the course of his career, he became more than a broadcaster—serving as a storyteller, mentor, historian, and ambassador for country music. His work introduced generations of listeners to artists and traditions that shaped the genre.

The Grand Ole Opry has announced that its upcoming Saturday broadcast will be dedicated to his memory, while WSM-AM plans special programming honoring his legacy, including highlights from “Coffee, Country & Cody.”

As Nashville and the broader country music world mourn his passing, Bill Cody is being remembered for his unmistakable voice, deep love of country music, and lifelong dedication to the artists and audiences he served. His legacy will continue through the many lives he touched and the music he helped preserve.