In November 2018, Bill and his wife, Lola, invited us to visit them at their Virginia home. Bill's graciousness and hospitality were immense. We talked for hours, and before we left, Lola handed me a bag full of his CDs. I even asked Bill to autograph one of my LP albums of the Country Gentlemen.
In April 2019, Bill and Lola visited with us at Henninger Media Services in Arlington, where we did a video interview for the “Special Features” on our Blu-ray and standard DVD. When we premiered the restored film at the Bluegrass Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro, Bill and Lola were there to cheer us on.
Bill’s unqualified love of Bluegrass Country Soul gave us such confidence in our work that it helped us over any of the hurdles we faced. Bill volunteered to step in and make important phone calls for us when they were needed. He also contributed his anecdotes to our companion book, and agreed to allow music for our 2-CD set of “Additional Music,” including his own, distinctive composition, “Cowboys and Indians.”
Ellen and I were so proud to be in the audience when Bill was inducted into the Bluegrass Hall of Fame.
I’m sure everyone who has met him will use the same word to describe him, namely, that in every sense, he was a true “Gentleman.” When referring to Bill Emerson, I will always capitalize that word.
Our hearts and love go out to Lola, and Bill’s entire family. We miss him already.
Best Always,
Albert Ihde and Ellen Pasternack
Producer/Director and Executive Director
