Today marks what would have been Johnny Cash’s 82^nd birthday. The singer along with his wife June Carter Cash developed a close relationship with Billy and Ruth over the years. Billy even said, “We have no better friends than Johnny and June.”

Johnny Cash appeared with his wife at many Crusades over the years in support of their friend including Fort Lauderdale in February 1985. And Billy even appeared on the Johnny Cash show several times.

In 1971, Billy was featured on the ABC network show from the Grand Ole Opry as Johnny sang his song “The Preacher Said” after which Billy preached a short sermon.