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Country Music Producer Jerry Kennedy Passes Away at 85

2/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jerry Kennedy, a prominent country music producer, died February 11, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, at age 85.
He was born August 10, 1940, in Shreveport, Louisiana, and he became a 1960s session musician before leading Mercury Records' country division.
Kennedy produced hits for Roger Miller and Reba McEntire.
His son Gordon confirmed Kennedy's death from congestive heart failure.
The cause of death was not disclosed.

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Story summary

Jerry Kennedy, a prominent country music producer, died February 11, 2026, in Nashville, Tennessee, at age 85.
He was born August 10, 1940, in Shreveport, Louisiana, and he became a 1960s session musician before leading Mercury Records' country division.
Kennedy produced hits for Roger Miller and Reba McEntire.
His son Gordon confirmed Kennedy's death from congestive heart failure.
The cause of death was not disclosed.