George Jones' funeral will be open to the public.

The country music legend died last week (26.04.13) aged 81 following a health scare on April 18 - which he was hospitalised for in Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee, and never recovered from - and fans have been invited to say their goodbyes alongside his family and friends.

His publicist Kirt Webster said in a media release: ''George would have wanted his fans and friends everywhere to be able to come and pay their respects along with his family.''

George's widow Nancy added: ''Thanks to George's friends, fans, and loved ones for the outpouring of love at this terrible time. I love you all.''

The funeral will take place 10am on Thursday (02.05.13) at Nashville's country music stage Grand Ole Opry House.

The late star is also survived by his four children with Nancy, whom he was married to for 30 years.

George first joined the Grand in 1956, with his last performance being in October 2010 before celebrating his 80th there in 2011.

The venue celebrated the work of their regular singer over the weekend with numerous musicians, including Brad Paisley and Mel Tillis, performing songs and recalling their memories with him.

The 'He Stopped Loving Her Today' singer is considered one of the most recognisable and influential voices in his genre and was seen as an influence to various performers, including Elvis Costello and Frank Sinatra.

George won two Grammy Awards throughout his lifetime and made over 150 records during his 50-year career, with popular singles including 'The Race is On' and 'She Thinks I Still Care'.