We're heartbroken to share the passing of someone who brought insurmountable joy to everyone here at the Opry, Opry member Don Schlitz. Schlitz was among the most influential and beloved songwriters in the history of Country Music. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame member penned several chart-topping songs we all know and love. “The Gambler,” “On the Other Hand,” “Forever and Ever, Amen,” “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” “The Greatest,” and “When You Say Nothing at All” - are touchstones and inspirations that continue to influence songwriters and singers decades after they were written. His words and music have articulated the extraordinary emotions inherent in common experience. “How ironic that a man who had such an incredible way with words has left so many of us without any,” said Dan Rogers, Grand Ole Opry executive producer. "Don was a gift to country music and a most beloved part of our Opry family. He was a hero and a friend, and we will never forget him.” And, as Kenny Rogers once noted, “Don didn’t just write songs, he wrote careers.” Saturday’s Grand Ole Opry Show will be dedicated in his honor.