In an incredibly emotional revelation that has left fans and the music world in awe, Don Reid of The Statler Brothers has finally shared the deeply personal and heartfelt letter that Jimmy Fortune wrote to Lew DeWitt, one of the founding members of the legendary group. The letter, which was never intended for the public, highlights the deep bond and respect Jimmy had for Lew—one that transcended their professional relationship.
Lew DeWitt, who tragically passed away in 1990, was a cornerstone of The Statler Brothers, known for his powerful voice and significant contributions to their sound. When Jimmy Fortune joined the group in the late ’80s, he had big shoes to fill, and it was Lew who played a pivotal role in welcoming him into the fold. The emotional letter Jimmy wrote to Lew, which Don Reid has shared for the first time, reveals the profound impact Lew had on him both as a mentor and a friend.
“Lew, you’ve been more than just a colleague to me,” the letter begins, “You’ve been a guide, a friend, and a true inspiration. I’ll never be able to fully put into words what you’ve meant to me. Your kindness, your generosity, and your unwavering belief in me have shaped the person I am today. I owe you more than you’ll ever know.”
In his letter, Jimmy speaks openly about the uncertainty and fear he felt when he first joined The Statler Brothers. Despite the legendary status of the group and the daunting challenge of stepping into Lew’s shoes, Jimmy writes how Lew was always there, offering both guidance and reassurance.
“I was scared when I first joined the band,” Jimmy’s letter continues. “I was just a kid from a small town, and I felt like I didn’t belong. But you took me in, taught me the ropes, and made me feel like I was part of something bigger than myself. You didn’t just teach me about music—you taught me about life.”
The bond between Lew and Jimmy was built not just on music but on mutual respect and admiration. As Jimmy’s letter reveals, Lew’s wisdom and mentorship extended far beyond the stage, and their relationship was one of deep personal connection.
“You showed me what it means to be a man of integrity,” Jimmy wrote. “You’ve been through so much in your own life, but you never let that stop you from being a great friend and an even greater artist. I look up to you more than you’ll ever know.”
Don Reid, who has always been a private person when it comes to his emotional life, was visibly moved when he shared this letter. “It was something Jimmy wanted to do for Lew,” Don explained in an interview. “Lew was always a guiding light for all of us, and Jimmy’s letter was his way of expressing everything he had learned from Lew. I think it’s time the world knew just how much Lew meant to all of us—especially Jimmy.”
The letter ends with a poignant statement of gratitude: “You may be gone, but your legacy lives on. Thank you, Lew, for everything you’ve done for me and for The Statler Brothers. I’ll carry your lessons with me always.”
As fans of The Statler Brothers reflect on the deep bond between the band’s members, Jimmy’s heartfelt words serve as a reminder of the power of mentorship, friendship, and respect. Lew DeWitt’s legacy as both an artist and a mentor will continue to resonate through the music he created and the lives he touched.
“Lew was more than a bandmate,” Don Reid said with emotion. “He was family. And this letter proves just how much he meant to Jimmy and to all of us.”