Erv Woolsey, a country music executive, talent manager, and Nashville entertainment entrepreneur, has died at the age of 80.

Among many acts he worked with and notable successes attributed to his name, the four-plus decades of friendship and guidance he offered to Country Music Hall of Famer George Strait are most prominent.

“My manager for around 45 years and most importantly, my friend for even longer, Erv Woolsey, passed away this morning,” Strait wrote in a statement. “He had complications from a surgery and just couldn’t overcome it. He was a very tough man and fought hard, but sadly it was just too much. We will miss him so very much and will never forget all the time we had together. Won’t ever be the same without him.”

Woolsey passed peacefully under the care of physicians in Clearwater, Florida, on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, following complications from surgery. He is survived by his son Clint, ex-wife Connie, brother David, and sister Beth, and he is preceded in death by his parents, John and Mavis Woolsey, and brother Johnny Woolsey. Details on arrangements will be shared at a future date.