Billy Edd Wheeler, a renowned songwriter and author, has passed away, leaving behind a legendary career. Inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, Wheeler penned iconic hits such as Jackson, made famous by Johnny Cash and June Carter, and Coward of the County by Kenny Rogers.
Born in Boone County, West Virginia, and later settling in Swannanoa, North Carolina, Wheeler released 15 solo albums and co-wrote songs performed by music legends like Elvis Presley, Bobby Darin, and Neil Young. His most famous composition, Jackson, reached No. 2 on the country charts in 1967 and earned a Grammy Award.
In addition to songwriting, Wheeler wrote plays such as Hatfields & McCoys, performed annually since 1970, and authored books of poetry and humor. Wheeler’s influence on country music and theater earned him numerous accolades, including induction into multiple music halls of fame.