The country singer who died in a plane crash in 1964 was Jim Reeves.
Details of the Tragic Accident
Jim Reeves, an iconic figure in country music, often referred to as "Gentleman Jim," was tragically killed in a plane crash on August 2, 1964. Reeves, piloting his private plane, crashed in a wooded area near Brentwood, Tennessee, during a severe thunderstorm. At the time of the accident, he was 39 years old and was returning from a business trip.
Accompanying Reeves was his piano player and road manager, Dean Manuel, who was 30 years old. Federal and state officials discovered the charred wreckage of their small plane, a single-engine Beechcraft Debonair, after an extensive search. The sudden death of Jim Reeves sent shockwaves through the music industry, but his legacy of smooth, crooning country hits has endured for decades.
Key Facts About Jim Reeves' Passing
Detail | Description |
---|---|
Name | Jim Reeves |
Date of Death | August 2, 1964 |
Age at Death | 39 years old |
Cause | Plane crash (while piloting his own small plane) |
Location | A wooded area near Brentwood, Tennessee |
Companion | Dean Manuel (Reeves' piano player and road manager, 30 years old at the time) |
For more information regarding the details of the crash and Jim Reeves' impact on music, historical accounts provide further context. Learn more about the life and legacy of Jim Reeves.