For over three decades, Don Reid—the iconic lead vocalist and songwriter of The Statler Brothers—carried a deep, untold truth close to his heart, a secret he never shared with the public. But now, at this stage in his life and career, Don has finally broken his silence, revealing something about the late Lew DeWitt that has left fans absolutely stunned, moved, and filled with admiration.
In an exclusive and deeply personal conversation, Don admitted: “There was something I never told anyone—out of respect, and out of love. But I think Lew would want it known now.”
Lew DeWitt, the original tenor of The Statler Brothers, was celebrated for his angelic voice, poetic songwriting, and gentle personality. His departure from the group in 1982 because of health issues broke the hearts of both fans and bandmates alike. Although he passed away in 1990, his legacy remains a lasting presence in country music.
Don’s secret was not about scandal or drama, but about grace. He revealed, “Lew wasn’t just the voice of harmony—he was the glue in ways most people never knew. When times got tough behind the scenes—creative tensions, long nights on the road, personal struggles—he was the one who would quietly bring peace. He didn’t want credit for it. He just did it.”
The most touching part came when Don described Lew’s final years, after he stepped away from the spotlight. “He was in pain. A lot of pain. But he never let that define him,” Don said, his voice thick with emotion. “And in one of our last conversations, he asked me not to let the world remember him for being sick—but for being grateful.”
Don honored this heartfelt request for over 30 years, choosing instead to highlight Lew’s contributions, character, and friendship rather than dwelling on his struggles.
“I think the world deserves to know what kind of man he really was,” Don stated earnestly. “Not just the singer. But the friend. The fighter. The soul who never once complained, even when the world would have forgiven him for it.”
The fans responded with overwhelming emotion, many expressing they always sensed a deeper bond within the group—and now they finally understand why.
Today, Don explains that the reason he is speaking out now is simple: “I’m older. And I want to give Lew the tribute he never asked for but always earned.”
In an industry often defined by flashy stardom and camera lights, this quiet confession speaks louder than any hit song. It serves as a powerful reminder that the greatest stories aren’t always sung, but deeply lived.
Thanks to Don Reid’s long-hidden secret coming to light, we now see Lew DeWitt fully—not only as a musical genius but as a man of quiet courage and enduring grace.
