‘Won’t ever be the same,’ Strait said after the loss of his long time friend

Country music icon George Strait is facing a profound loss as he recently announced the deaths of two cherished members of his musical family on the same day. The legendary singer expressed his grief on his Facebook page over the passing of his manager, Eugene Ervine “Erv” Woolsey, and his band member, Gene Elders.

Erv Woolsey, who had been Strait’s manager since the early 1980s, passed away at the age of 80 after complications from surgery.

What George said?

A Houston native and a graduate of Southwest Texas State University, Woolsey moved to Nashville where he made significant contributions to the music industry. Strait met Woolsey at The Prairie Rose, a nightclub Woolsey owned in San Marcos, which set the stage for their long-lasting partnership and friendship. Strait lamented:

“My manager for around 45 years and most importantly my friend for even longer, Erv Woolsey, passed away this morning. He had complications from a surgery and just couldn’t overcome it. He was a very tough man, and fought hard, but sadly it was just too much. We will miss him so very much and will never forget all the time we had together. Won’t ever be the same without him.”

On the same day, Strait also mourned the loss of Gene Elders, a key member of his Ace in the Hole band since 1984. Elders, who played the fiddle and mandolin, was remembered by Strait as a beloved “brother” in music.

“All of our prayers go out to both families. Me and the band won’t ever be the same without our brother Gene. We loved him so much. Go play with Mike again Geno. We’ll come join you guys later,” Strait posted.

The country music community and fans worldwide extend their deepest sympathies to George Strait during this difficult time, as he navigates the loss of two pivotal figures in his life and career.