Remembering Naomi Judd

Naomi Judd of the mother-daughter Country Music Hall of Fame duo The Judds has passed away, a day before she was to officially be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame with her daughter Wynonna.

Ashley Judd announced on social media that her mother had passed. “Today we sisters experienced a tragedy,” she writes. “We lost our beautiful mother to the disease of mental illness. We are shattered. We are navigating profound grief and know that as we loved her, she was loved by her public. We are in unknown territory.”

Here is what is now The Judds final public performance from the recent CMT Awards:

Here is what some of her peers are saying of her passing:

• Academy of Country Music (ACMs) – The Academy is deeply saddened by the heartbreaking news this afternoon of Naomi Judd’s passing. With her daughter Wynonna, the Judds won the ACM Award for Top Vocal Duet 7 consecutive years, as well as the ACM Pioneer Award more recently at the Academy of Country Music Honors.
• Anne Murray – So sad to hear about Naomi Judd… what a lovely woman. I send my sincere condolences to her family
• Ava Rowland – I’m so sad and my heart is broken for the Judds familyI hope you will join me in lifting them up in prayer Sing with the angels Naomi
• Bill Anderson – I am shocked and saddened along with the rest of our country music community over the passing of Naomi Judd. I’ll never forget meeting her for the first time when she was a contestant on a TV game show I was hosting. I asked her to identify herself for the audience and she said, “My name is Naomi Judd and I am a nurse from Franklin, Tennessee. My daughter and I sing together, and someday we hope to make it in country music.” I was looking so forward to recalling that moment with her on Sunday when she and Wynonna were to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. She was one of a kind and will certainly be missed.
• Billy Gilman – Outside on my deck and Grandpa came on by theb@thejuddsmusic and I burst into tears. I am at a loss with the passing of Naomi. I loved her. She really loved me. love you @Wynonna.  I am praying
• Billy Ray Cyrus – So sad at the loss of my friend and music legend @TheNaomiJudd.  My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. As a fellow Kentuckian my hats off in honor of the legacy of music she shared with the world and the doors she opened for so many others like me.
• Bobby Bones – RIP Naomi Judd. My mom taught me seemingly every one of your songs. She’d sing them often and loud. You left Country Music better than you found it.
• Bobby Tomberlin – My heart hurts after hearing the news about Naomi. I was in radio before moving to Nashville and The Judd’s came along with a rootsy sound when so much of Country Music had an overproduced sound and had gotten away from its roots. Praying for Wynonna and the family.
• Bryan White – Naomi Judd 1946-2022 No words. The world has lost an icon and an angel. Judds records made a profound impact on me. I was blessed 2 be on shows with them and I’ll never forget it as long as I live. Rest easy sweet Naomi. Prayers of peace 4 the family #timeless #naomijudd
• Carly Pearce – Naomi Judd, like “Grandpa,” told me about,
the good old days in country music and living…
She was a beacon of glamour, fun and keeping it real.
And now…
She’s in heaven AND the Country Music Hall of Fame! Thanks for showing a Kentucky girl how to make dreams come true.
• Carrie Underwood – Country music lost a true legend…sing with the angels, Naomi!!! We’re all sending up prayers for the Judd family today…
• Charlie Daniels Jr. – Mom and I are saddened to hear about the tragic passing of Naomi Judd. Prayers to Wynonna, Ashley and the rest of the Judd family. The Daniels family crossed paths with the Judd family many times over the years.
• Chris Janson – Sending up prayers for the Judd family. RIP. We love you & the legacy you left. Another great one gone to soon.
• Clint Black – Terribly saddened to hear of Naomi’s passing. We will be sending up prayers for the strength and peace of mind her family will need to endure this difficult time. Rest in Peace, Naomi.
• Cody Allan  – My heart is sinking over the loss today of Naomi Judd at 76. She was a talented lady, and one of a kind, making The Judds iconic in every sense of the word.
• Cole Swindell – Naomi Judd 🙁 so sad to hear this news. Thinking of all of her family & friends. Tough day for country music..
• Country Music Association (CMA) – We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of @TheNaomiJudd. Naomi, who made up half of legendary Country Music duo, @JuddsOfficial, has forever left a mark on Country Music’s history. Our deepest sympathy goes out to her family and friends during this difficult time.
• Country Music Television (CMT) – We’re heartbroken to learn about the passing of the legendary Naomi Judd & honored to have shared many unforgettable moments & performances together. Our hearts go out to her husband Larry, daughters Wynonna & Ashley, & legions of fans around the world during this difficult time.
• Craig Morgan – Our thoughts and our prayers go out to the entire Judd family.
• Crystal Gayle – I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend and fellow Kentuckian, Naomi Judd. Naomi was always so special to be with. She accomplished so much and she will be missed and loved forever. My prayers go out to Naomi and her family.
• Dallas Remington – It is a terrible day when one of your heroes passes away. I’m so heartbroken to hear about the passing of Naomi Judd. Being from Kentucky, The Judds were a staple in our house. One of the first songs I learned to play and sing when I first started in music was  “Mama He’s Crazy”.  She and Wynonna were major inspirations in my music and life. She will be dearly missed.
• Dallas Wayne – Sunday was slated to be a day of celebration with the medallion ceremony for the Judds being officially welcomed into the Country Music Hall of Fame…But sadly, the Country Music Community and millions of fans around the world are mourning the loss of Naomi Judd, the matriarch of the country music duo the Judds. Our condolences go out to Wynonna, Ashley & Naomi’s husband of 32 years, Larry Strickland.
• Darin and Brooke Aldridge – Growing up and having a very close mother/daughter relationship with my own Mom and sharing a love for music with her, we always felt a deep connection to The Judds and their catalog of music. Every song so relatable and heartfelt. Their harmonies were spot-on, and were a big reason I found it easier to learn harmony parts when I started to sing. Darin and I are so saddened to learn of the passing of Naomi Judd today. We are grateful that we watched her final performance on the CMT Awards just a few weeks ago. Thank you, Naomi, for leaving a mark on the music world and in our hearts. We send many thoughts and prayers to Wynonna, Ashley and their entire family.
• David Ball – I love the Judds. We got to play some shows with them and as expected, they were so great. Our thoughts go out to the Judd family.
• Devon O’Day – My heart goes out to Wynonna and Ashley on the passing of their mother, Naomi. In a world where someone might seem to have it all, mental illness can be a thief that steals joy from every moment. I pray that they can find peace moving forward knowing that their love did indeed build a bridge, maybe not fully realized on this side of heaven, but truly on the other side as Naomi has found her way home.
• Exile – We played together on a lot of shows as they blasted into superstardom. Like everyone else in our industry, we were taken with Naomi’s beauty and grace. We are shocked by her passing and missing her now. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
• Flat River Band – Country music lost an iconic woman who has inspired so many families across the globe, including ours. Our Momma was a huge fan of Judd’s family harmony which was no doubt a part of our family harmony growing up. She will be greatly missed. Whether singing live or conducting an interview, Naomi Judd always carried herself as if “Love Can Build A Bridge.” She will be greatly missed.
• Gary Levox – Such sad news. My family sends our condolences and prayers to the entire Judd family.
• Gene Watson – So very sad to hear that Naomi Judd has passed at age 76. I remember how kind and nice Naomi was when we worked together. She was a good person with a generous spirit toward everyone she met.   Keeping her family in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
  
• Heath Wright (Ricochet) – So sorry to hear of the loss of a great lady in country music. Naomi was not only an amazing singer/songwriter but an author, actress, and philanthropist. She will be greatly missed. Country music is better off because she was part of it… Godspeed Naomi!
• Heidi Newfield – We are all shocked and basically trying to process this tragic news! Naomi was iconic. She had a charismatic presence and a fire inside as intense as her trademark redhead and stunning features. I had the pleasure of working with The Judds several times throughout their different runs as a dynamic duo. Her subtle, but oh so noticeable low harmonies were unlike any other.Their music will ALWAYS be classic. My heart goes out to my friend Wy, Ashley and the whole family in this terribly sad time!
• J.D. Shelburne – I am saddened to hear of the loss of fellow Kentuckian and legend Naomi Judd. Their music traces back to my childhood when mom would sing their songs to us. Their sound was iconic and I remember so many of their hits. Naomi will forever be remembered. Prayers to Wy and Ashley + family.
• J.P. Pennington (Exile) – I’m saddened and shocked to hear of Naomi’s passing. Another old friend lost.
• Janie Fricke – It’s a sad day to hear about Naomi Judd, her creative and clever creation of the Judds image made a huge impact in Country Music, she will be missed greatly.
• Jimmy Wayne – This is the country music that inspired me to pursue a country music career. Touring with @Wynonna Judd (approximately two months) was my first experience touring professionally. Losing a mother is the worst pain I’ve ever endured. RIP Naomi. Prayers for the family
• John Berry – Such a warm and talented lady. Prayers for Wynonna, Ashley and her husband Larry, as well as all of their family, friends and fans as they grieve this tremendous loss.
• John Michael Montgomery – So sad to hear about the passing of Naomi Judd. She will be remembered as one of the most influential forces in Country Music. She was also a proud Kentuckian, she will be missed.
• John Rich – So very sad to hear of #NaomiJudd passing today. I had the great honor of knowing her, and she was no doubt one of the most iconic entertainers ever to make country music. Thinking of my good friend @Wynonna right now, this is a very tough day for her and the family. #TheJudds  Just learning this… #TheJudds were supposed to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame tomorrow…My goodness. This is absolutely heart wrenching. @Wynonna please remember we all love you and we are here for you.
• Johnny Lee – Such a sad day in country music with the loss of Naomi Judd. Her family is in my prayers
• Jordan Davis – RIP Naomi Judd…Sending prayers to the entire Family
• Kelleigh Bannen – Absolutely gutted.
• Kelly Lang – The first time I ever met Naomi, I was 14 years old and we were performing on the Ralph Emery Show. Ralph lovingly called them the “Soap Sisters” since Naomi made her own lye soap. She was so sweet and kind and remained so every time I was ever with her through the years. She wrote me the most precious note recently about my commercial and how much she loved my music. I will cherish it forever. I’m so deeply saddened by this loss. We were so looking forward to The Judds‘ induction into the CMA Hall of Fame. The music business will never be the same. Please join us in prayer for her family’s comfort during this time.
• Kent Blazy – The Judds were a unique and inspirational duo. Naomi’s life story reads like a fairytale. Her upbringing and working as a nurse and of her and Wyonna doing the 5:30 am Ralph Emery Show to their rise to superstardom. Naomi was loved by so many and will be missed.
• Kristin Chenoweth – I had the honor of meeting Naomi Judd years ago and she was so incredibly kind. Sending love and prayers to Wynonna, Ashley, and the whole Judd family during this time. I never thought she’d go
• Lacy J. Dalton  – Naomi was a lovely person and this is a tragic loss. Our profound sympathy goes to Wynona and Ashley.
• Larry Gatlin – There’s style and there’s class. Very few people have both. Naomi Judd was one of those very few people. I loved her and I miss her. My condolencs to Wynnona, Ashley, Larry and family.
• Lee Greenwood – I have so many memories with Naomi Judd – from our early years on stage around the country, awards shows to recent neighborly encounters at church or around our town of Franklin. I am speechless & so sad! My prayers go out to Wynonna, Ashley & the rest of her family.  God bless you
• LeAnn Rimes – my heart, like so many’s are, is incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Naomi Judd. my deepest condolences and love goes out to @Wynonna and @AshleyJudd truly a heartbreaking day. #RIPNaomiJudd #WynonnaJudd
• Loretta Lynn – I’m just heartbroken over the loss of Naomi Judd . My fellow Kentucky girl, my friend, and an amazing singer. There are no words. Please pray for Wynonna, Ashley, Larry, and grandchildren. Heartbroken. Sending all my love.
• Lorrie Morgan – Such a tragic loss. Truly one of country music‘s most iconic entertainers has left us all in tears. As I sit here wondering why to myself, I know there are no answers. You look back and you think could I have helped in some way? I know these feelings as they have crept up in my life a time or two. Naomi was always so nice to me and my family. She would go out of her way to have someone summon me to come to her dressing room and we’d be sitting and talking until she or I had to go onstage. She always gave me wonderful advice, so it breaks my heart that maybe I should’ve reached out to her one more time. Our hearts are broken, and this music industry, this business, can do strange and crazy things to people. My thoughts are with her two beautiful daughters, Larry and her grandchildren and all of the fans who were so excited to see her back on the road and back on the stage again. She’s on the best stage she could ever be on now. Rest in peace, Naomi.  All my love and all my sorrow, Lorrie Morgan
• Luke Bryan – My family’s prayers go out the Judd family. What a tremendous loss in the country music community. The Judds music has inspired so many of my dreams and truly spoke to me my whole life. You will be missed Naomi.
• Maren Morris – Rest In Peace, Naomi Judd. Honored to have witnessed “Love Can Build a Bridge” just a few short weeks ago.
• Marie Osmond – Losing a mother is one of the hardest things you could ever go through. Praying for you Wynonna and Ashley Judd and sending all my love on the loss of Naomi Judd, especially with The Judds induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum tomorrow
• Marshall Tucker Band – Our hearts and thoughts go out to the Judd family with the great loss of Naomi. Sometimes we as humans don’t understand things that happen in this life, but we should find solace in knowing that there is Someone mightier who does. Fly high, sweet lady. Sending much love.
• Martina McBride – Prayers and so much love going out to @wynonnajudd and @ashley_judd and all of Naomi’s friends, family and fans. Its hard to find any words at this moment. So I will just say rest Naomi. You brought us joy. Your legacy and music will live forever.
• Meghan Linsey – I really don’t have the words right now. Naomi meant so much to me. She took me under her wing and taught me so much. She will forever be my Country Fairy Godmother. I am so grateful for her friendship.
• Michelle Wright – I’ll never forget the first time I heard “Momma He’s Crazy”. I quickly became a lifelong fan of the Judds. I’m so sad to hear of the passing of Naomi. My heart aches for Wynonna, Ashley, Naomi’s husband Larry, and the family. So tragic. Rest in Peace now Naomi.
• Mickey Guyton – Rest in power Naomi Judd
• Miranda Lambert – I’m thankful I got to spend just a little time with you Naomi. True legend. Praying for peace for this family. Rest easy
• Paul Brandt – I recall a very memorable appearance on Prime Time Country with Naomi. Prayers for @Wynonna, @AshleyJudd, and the entire family. Love to all.
• Randall King – RIP
• Reba McEntire – We’ve been down the long road together. I sure miss my buddy. Rest In Peace. Finally. Love you Naomi.
• Rhonda Vincent – So saddened to hear of the passing of country music’s Naomi Judd She added a prominent voice to The Judds and left behind a legacy of beautiful music. My love prayers go out to her family. Rest in Sweet Peace dear Lady.
• Ricky Skaggs – I was thinking about Sunday’s Hall of Fame induction for The Judds and how excited they must be feeling when I received the news about Naomi’s passing. It hit me so hard, and I could hardly believe it. I told my wife Sharon and she burst into tears. All we could think about was Wynonna and Ashley. I’ve known them all for so long. It’s heartbreaking. Pray for their loss. Another sad day for Country Music.
• Rissi Palmer – It was shocking to hear about Naomi Judd’s passing…wow. Praying for Wynonna, Ashley, and their family… We met when she was a judge and I was a contestant on Star Search in 2002. She championed me all the way through to the finals, where I lost. Afterwards, she came to my dressing room, where I was sobbing, hugged me and told me to keep going. She would randomly and periodically check in on me, just to see if I was still making music and ok. It always made me smile to know that someone like her remembered me. Please check on your friends and family that struggle with mental illness…
• Sarah Darling – RIP #naomijudd
• Sawyer Brown – Heartbreaking news to hear that Naomi Judd passed away today. Praying for comfort and peace for Wynonna and Ashley and their family.  Friends, hug your mamas if you can.
• Shane Owens – So heartbroken to hear of the passing of the one and only Naomi Judd. A true living legend of country music sadly will be missed. Rest In Peace Naomi Judd. Prayers for the family.
• Steve Dorff – So sorry for your loss Wy, Ashley, Larry and family.
• Steve Wariner – Words seem inadequate, but I wish the Judd family prayers and peace at this most challenging time. Rest In Peace, sweet Kentucky girl.
• T. Graham Brown – Naomi Judd was a dear friend & awesome talent. She was always so sweet & kind to me. I knew her well & did dozens of shows with The Judds. They have touched millions with their music. Sheila & my hearts are broken. Please pray for the Judd Family, fans, & friends. Rest In Peace, sweet sister. I love you!
• T.G. Sheppard – Another great musical voice – Naomi Judd – has gone silent and left for home. I will never forget introducing her along with Wynonna on their very first network tv show appearance. I knew after introducing them that they were destined for greatness. My prayers are with her family, friends, and fans at this very sad time.
• Tanya Tucker – Say it isn’t so. Cannot believe my girlfriend and longtime buddy Naomi is gone. We’ve known each other for years and she always treated me with class, grace and pure kindness. I’m going to miss her so much.  I’m so very sorry for my friend @Wynonna. I’m praying her and @AshleyJudd can survive THIS. The biggest hurdle they will ever have. My prayers and thoughts go out to the entire @TheNaomiJudd family! It brings tears to my heart. Rest easy angel!
• Taylon Hope – So sorry and heartbroken to hear about the passing of Naomi Judd. She and Wynonna‘s music have influenced countless artists including me. When I was little, my Mom and I would pretend that we were The Judds. We even covered “Rockin’ With the Rhythm of the Rain” at one of my vocal recitals and I still perform that song today. My prayers are with Wynonna, Ashley, Larry, and the entire family and for everyone who was a part of The Judds journey. Their music will always be legendary and those magic family harmonies will continue to live on. God Bless and love.
• Tenille Arts – What a profound loss. A trailblazer who was so vocal about mental health awareness and changed the world with her music. You will be so missed, Naomi. Sending all of my love to Wynonna, Ashley, and all of her loved ones.
• Terri Clark – I’m shocked & saddened to hear of the passing of Naomi Judd. She & @Wynonna inspired an entire generation to chase their dreams & make them happen. Their music has been & will always be the standard. My prayers go out to the entire family as they navigate through this tragic time
• Tess Frizzell – Momma He’s Crazy” and “Grandpa” were favorites as a kid and just part of the soundtrack of my childhood. I once was meeting a friend for dinner and he was wearing his military attire, and the waiter informed us that Naomi Judd had seen him walk in and our meal was paid for and thanked him for his service. I’ll choose to remember her for that kind gesture over such a shocking tragic ending. Just shows that status, awards, and fame don’t always reflect the struggles inside. Prayers for all of the family.
• The Bellamy Brothers – Our prayers go out to Naomi’s husband, daughters, family, friends, and fans. We, like everyone who knew her, are devastated by the news of her passing. We will always hold near and dear the memories of touring with The Judds and visiting with Naomi backstage at so many events through the years. May you Rest In Peace, Naomi.
• The Oak Ridge Boys – Oh Sweet Jesus… Naomi Judd has gone home … the day before the Judds @countrymusichof induction … This is devastating news… We are saddened beyond words..
• Tim Atwood – The Judds were the superstars of their time, and I knew them from the beginning when I played piano for Naomi and Wynonna on the “Ralph Emery Morning Show.” Back then Ralph called them The Soap Sisters because Naomi made homemade lye soap and brought it to the show as gifts for us all. I knew from the beginning they were destined for greatness. I am in shock to hear of Naomi’s passing on the eve of their induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame–the moment when their greatness would forever be acknowledged in the history books. To me, The Judds were always a closing act. I’m just so sorry that Naomi made the decision to bring the curtain down early. My prayers go out to her family, friends, and fans.
• Tim McGraw – Sending our love and prayers to Wynonna and Ashley and the entire Judd family. We grieve with you and so many others.
• Tracy Lawrence – My heart is saddened from the loss of Naomi Judd. I had the pleasure of some great conversations with her over the years. She was always very kind and gracious to me. Such an Icon in country music. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. She will truly be missed.
• Trisha Yearwood – I am deeply saddened by the loss of Naomi Judd. My heart goes out to her family during this extremely difficult time. Country music will never be the same. Love one another.
• Ty Herndon – I am absolutely heartsick to hear the news about Naomi Judd. My heart and my prayers go out to Wynonna, Ashley Judd, and all of us friends and fans who loved and respected her so much. She is irreplaceable — a country music legend will never be forgotten.
• William Lee Golden (Oak Ridge Boys) – Our Deepest Sympathy to Wynonna and Ashley family. Hold to Gods Unchanging Hand Rest In Peace Naomi Judd