Grammy-winning country songwriter Brett James tragically passed away on September 18, 2025, along with his wife, Melody Carole Wilson, and her daughter, Meryl Maxwell Wilson, in a plane crash.
The devastating accident occurred just days after Meryl’s 28th birthday, leaving fans and the country music community in mourning. As the world remembers his incredible career, Brett James’ final Instagram posts offer a poignant look into his life and the family he held dear.
Final Instagram Moments
Before his untimely death, Brett James shared heartfelt moments with his family on social media. On June 16, 2025, James posted a picture of himself surrounded by loved ones on a backyard deck, celebrating Father’s Day.
The caption read, “Such an amazing Father’s Day!!” A few days earlier, James had shared a selfie with his wife, Melody, from their trip to the Bahamas, captioned, “So much fun with my love in the Bahamas.” These intimate snapshots reveal the close bond he had with his family and how much they meant to him.
James, aged 57, was deeply invested in family life, as seen in the loving tributes his wife shared. On Instagram, Melody celebrated her daughter Meryl’s 28th birthday with a post packed with throwback photos, saying, “Happy Birthday, my Love!! How Blessed am I to be your Momma!” Her words expressed deep gratitude for her daughter’s presence and the love they shared.
Tragically, the joy of these family moments was cut short when the plane they were traveling on crashed just 2 hours after departure from John C. Tune Airport in Nashville.
Brett James’ Legacy in Country Music
Brett James leaves behind an indelible legacy in the country music industry. He was known for writing some of country’s biggest hits, including Carrie Underwood’s “Jesus, Take the Wheel” and “Cowboy Casanova,” Tim McGraw’s “Telluride” and “Drugs or Jesus,” and Kenny Chesney’s “When the Sun Goes Down” and “Out Last Night.”
His Grammy Award-winning song “Jesus, Take the Wheel” was a milestone in his career, earning him recognition as one of Nashville’s most respected songwriters. James’ music has impacted generations of fans and artists, and his passing is a significant loss for the country music community.
His fellow artists, including Dierks Bentley, Jason Aldean, and Tim McGraw, shared their condolences online, with McGraw writing, “Brett was one of the most talented and most respected songwriters in Nashville.”
Honoring Brett James’ Memory
As tributes continue to pour in from fans, celebrities, and colleagues, Brett James’ impact on the world of country music is undeniable. He was not only a prolific songwriter but also a trusted collaborator and advocate for his fellow songwriters.
The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) paid tribute to James, honoring him as a two-time ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year.
Brett James is survived by his children from a previous marriage, leaving behind a family and legacy that will forever be cherished. As the world grieves, his music lives on, reminding us of his immense contribution to country music.