In Remembrance - Roy Clark Performs On The Jimmy Dean Show

Country star and musical prodigy, Roy Clark is remembered fondly by so many. The beloved host of the television show “Hee Haw” was known for his hilarious skits but respected for his incredible talent. As talented performers look back on their interactions with Roy Clark, it’s clear that he was also a good friend.

“Just heard Hee Haw Star / Super Picker #RoyClark just passed away. Saw him last when we filmed #CountrysFamilyReunion He was always so kind. Heaven gained another amazing addition to the Angel Band. Rest In Peace Roy” tweeted Rhonda Vincent.

"Roy Clark was one of the greatest ever," Dolly Parton said in an emailed statement to Billboard. "His spirit will never die. I loved him dearly and he will be missed."

Roy Linwood Clark was born in Meherrin, Virginia in 1933. His father worked the railroad but was also known to be a talented guitar, banjo and fiddler player. As a child, Roy would accompany his father at local square dances. By age 14, he had won two national banjo championships and an invitation to the Grand Ole Opry!

It was Roy’s father who gave him an important piece of advice, ‘Never turn your ear off to music until your heart hears it — because then you might hear something you like.'”

Roy officially got his start in the late 1940’s as a member of the Grandpa Jones band playing banjo and touring with the likes of Hank Williams. From there, he continued his run playing on radio and television on the East coast until being hired to play lead guitar in the house band for “The Jimmy Dean Show” (then called “Country Style”). It wasn’t long before this incredibly talented musician and jokester had moved West and scored his own record contract with Capitol. Not surprisingly, his debut album was titled “The Lightning Fingers of Roy Clark!”

More than all of his talent, Roy will be remembered for being a stand up guy. Known in the industry as “easy to get along with”, Roy quickly made a name for himself that will go beyond his music. He was truly loved by those who knew him and will be remembered for his dazzling smile and friendly demeanor.

"The next chance you get, do somethin' nice for somebody - say 'good day,' hold a door open - and don't wait around for a thank you... you don't need it." — Roy Clark