Loretta Lynn
Oct 8, 2012
Country icon Loretta Lynn celebrated her 50th Anniversary of being a member of the Grand Ole Opry on Tuesday, September 25th, 2012. On that same date in 1962, Ott Devine extended the coveted invitation to Loretta.
Reflecting on her first visit to the Opry around 1960 during a visit to Nashville with her husband, Loretta said "We spent the night in the car in front of the old Grand Ole Opry house. We didn't have any money, and the next morning, we divided a donut, and took pictures of the Opry. I got my picture made in front of it."
For the past 5 decades, her fortune had changed and she has had countless photos "made" ON the Opry's stage, including last Tuesday night. The anniversary celebration brought out some of Nashville's biggest stars to honor Loretta's influence and her contribution to country music. Lee Ann Womack, Pistol Annies, Trace Adkins, Bill Anderson, Loretta's sister Crystal Gayle and many more turned out for the historic night.
In one final moment of the celebration, Opry Vice President and General Manager Pete Fisher, along with Jeweler Johnathon Arndt came on stage to give Loretta a gift. They presented her with a limited edition 18 carat pink gold and diamond Swiss watch. The evening ended as Loretta wowed the audience with a performance of "Coal Miner's Daughter," and drew multiple standing ovations.
For more on the life, career and current events of Loretta Lynn, visit her website at www.LorettaLynn.com.
By: Misti Douglas