When Don Williams passed away in 2017, the world paused. Not because of loud headlines or controversy, but because a quiet, steady voice had gone silent. The man known as the “Gentle Giant” had sung his final verse.
But at his funeral, as loved ones gathered to say goodbye, it wasn’t just tears or prayers that filled the room—it was music. One song played softly in the background, and it wasn’t chosen at random. It was chosen because it meant everything to him… and to those who knew his heart best.
The Song: “Go Rest High on That Mountain” (Cover Version)
Although not written by Don Williams himself, “Go Rest High on That Mountain” was played as a tribute—a deeply emotional farewell that echoed the love, respect, and peace Don carried through his life.
Originally penned and performed by Vince Gill, the song has become one of the most powerful anthems for loss in country music. And for Don’s family, it captured what words couldn’t.
“Go rest high on that mountain
Son, your work on earth is done…”
These lyrics, filled with gentle reverence and finality, mirrored Don’s life—a life devoted to simplicity, family, faith, and music.
He didn’t seek fame. He didn’t crave attention. But his “work on earth”—healing hearts through song—was done beautifully.
Why It Meant Everything
Don Williams often spoke about peace, love, and stillness. It was in his lyrics. It was in his interviews. And it was in the way he treated people. So when the opening chords of “Go Rest High on That Mountain” played at his burial, it wasn’t just a song. It was a message:
- A message of gratitude for a man who gave the world so much through music.
- A message of peace, signaling that Don had finally found the eternal rest he so often sang about.
- And a message of hope, reminding us that while Don may be gone, his voice, his values, and his songs will live on.
His family later shared that this particular song had always moved Don deeply. He admired its simplicity, its soulfulness—much like his own music.
A Gentle Farewell
As the final notes faded into the breeze that day, many stood with tears in their eyes—not because it was the end, but because Don had finished his song.
And now, just like the lyrics said, he rests high on that mountain, watching over the world he once soothed with his songs.