(NASHVILLE) — The State Senate voted on Friday to approve a resolution sponsored by Senator Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) recognizing the accomplishments of the late James Cecil “Little Jimmy” Dickens.  Dickens was a country music legend of matchless fame and the oldest living member of the Grand Ole Opry at the time of his passing on January 2, 2015.

“Those of you that follow country music, and some that don’t, know that we lost a true icon on January 2 of this year,” said Senator Johnson. “He lived a wonderful life and was a true ambassador for country music.”

The resolution states, “Mr. Dickens leaves behind an indelible legacy of integrity and probity in public life, compassion and loyalty in private life, and diligence and dedication in all his chosen endeavors. . . Mr. Dickens marked the annals of country music history in a profoundly beautiful way and is, in large part, directly responsible for the timeless charm and appeals fans hold for the Grand Ole Opry.”

Dickens is survived by his wife of 44 years, Mona Dickens; two daughters, Pamela Detert and Lisa King; sons-in-law John Detert and Dennis King; two grandchildren, Amanda Detert and April Remick; three great-grandchildren, Keylee, Tanner, and Tyler Remick; and three sisters, Edna Allen, Shirley Allen, and Juanita Cox.