Chris Janson Recalls Writing Song for Hero John Anderson the Night He Died, Singing It at His Funeral

Over the weekend, Chris Janson had the honor of performing an original song at the funeral for his longtime friend and musical hero, John Anderson.

Anderson was laid to rest Sunday in a private service at the family cemetery in DeKalb County, Tennessee, following his death on October 21, 2026. According to Nick Beres of NewsChannel 5, Director Michael Hale with DeKalb County Chapel described the ceremony as being “moving and emotional.”

A few days after attending the service, Janson took to social media to reflect on the opportunity to honor such a beloved figure in country music and beyond. His post featured a photo taken from inside the car as he and his wife, Kelly, left the service, showing an American flag flying outside the ceremony.

“I thought that was a really amazing gesture by the local fire dept,” he wrote.

The country singer continued with a heartfelt message, reflecting on the bittersweet experience of getting to sing for someone he had long looked up to for so long. Janson also shared that he wrote an original song for Anderson shortly after learning of his passing, making the opportunity to perform it at the service especially meaningful.

“I would have never imagined singing a song for one of my hero’s, at his funeral. The night we found out about his passing, I stepped onto the back porch and wrote him a song. His family asked that I sing it at his funeral,” Janson explained. “That will forever be engrained in my heart, as one of the most highly regarded, most humbling honors in my life.”

He ended his statement by asking anyone reading his post to send some prayers to Anderson’s “wonderful” family and to turn on some music from John Anderson’s esteemed catalog.

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Janson was among the many country artists who took to social media to honor Anderson’s life and celebrate the legacy he leaves behind after news of his death broke. The “Wild Horses” singer shared a carousel of photos capturing memories from his time spent with Anderson, including a moment aboard a plane after a fishing trip in Islamorada, Florida, when the country legend told stories about Mack Vickery and Merle Kilgore.

“John Anderson was a hunting buddy, fishing buddy, mentor, friend, brother, and fellow Bass Pro Man. Truly a GREAT guy, and a real outlaw…He was The realest of the real. Rest easy my friend, and thank you for all the Happy Times and days in the field. Absolutely NOBODY, will ever fill John’s shoes.”

Janson concluded his tribute with a heartfelt message of love for Anderson, admitting how deeply he and his family will miss their friend.

“Keep on Swingin, and i’m Glad that Jesus gets to welcome The Black Sheep of The Family. ❤️🙌,” he added.

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John Anderson is survived by his wife Jamie Anderson, his daughters Brionna Motsenbocker (Erik) Hendersonville, TN and Alexa (Devin) McClish; grandchildren: Stella, Everett, and Wyatt. Brother Tim (Melody) Anderson; sisters – Karen Kidd (Mike), Gail Morrill (Jim), Daniel Island, SC, Deanna Wall (Bill), Hendersonville, and Donna Anderson, Nashville.

Beres also noted that in lieu of flowers or gifts, the family of the “Swingin’” singer invites donations to be made to the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund in honor of Anderson’s passion for conservation efforts.