The iconic Tom Jones reflects on the late Kris Kristofferson’s ‘huge capability and intellect’ in moving tribute 

Singing sensation Tom Jones has been known to move audiences to tears with his performances so it should come as no surprise that he delivered a heartfelt and moving tribute to Kris Kristofferson, following the country legend’s passing at 88.

Kristofferson sadly passed away on Saturday, September 28 at his home in Hawaii, according to a statement released by his family.

While his family did not provide a cause of death for the acclaimed performer, they did state he passed away peacefully.

Taking to Facebook, Jones shared his grief for the singing star and actor who wrote “some of the most beautiful” songs including Me and My Bobby McGee, Sunday Morning Coming Down, Help Me Make It Through the Night and For the Good Times.

“A very sad loss of the great Kris Kristofferson, creator of some of the most beautiful, moving songs ever written and recorded,” Jones wrote.

“A talent with huge capability and intellect and a wonderful character whose legacy is powerful.”

The Delilah singer signed off with, “RIP Kris: I hope your ‘soul’s in His Hands'”.

Born on June 22, 1936, Kristofferson demonstrated an early interest in literature and the arts. At Pomona College in California, he excelled academically, earning a Rhodes Scholarship to study poetry at the University of Oxford.

In 1960, Kristofferson joined the U.S. Army as a Ranger, where he developed his skills as a helicopter pilot while stationed in West Germany. His literary background ignited a passion for songwriting, prompting him to form a band during his military service. After completing his tour, he made the decision to turn down a teaching position at West Point, opting instead to pursue his dreams of a music career in Nashville. There he found his big break with the help of country legend Johnny Cash, who offered his mentorship and support.

Simultaneously, Kristofferson’s film career was beginning to get off the ground with a small role in The Last Movie (1971), but it was his portrayal of Billy the Kid in Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973) that showcased his acting prowess. He gained further acclaim in A Star Is Born (1976) alongside Streisand, a performance that earned him a Golden Globe and solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood.

In the 1980s, he formed the supergroup the Highwaymen with fellow country icons Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson. Their collaboration produced the chart-topping album Highwayman in 1985. Kristofferson continued to act and received critical acclaim for his role as a corrupt sheriff in Lone Star (1996), which reignited his acting career and led to appearances in a variety of films, including the Blade series, Payback (1999), and Planet of the Apes (2001).

Later in his career, Kristofferson released several celebrated albums, including This Old Road (2006) and Closer to the Bone (2009). He was honoured with numerous accolades throughout his career, including induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1985 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004.

Kristofferson is survived by his wife, Lisa; his children Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, John, Kelly, and Blake; as well as seven grandchildren.