Slim Lehart

Richard Edmond Hartley (June 25, 1935 – August 5, 2023), mostly known by his stage names Slim Lehart or "The Wheeling Cat," was an American country music singer and entertainer. Lehart is best known for his tenure as a member of the original Wheeling Jamboree (WWVA), the second oldest country music radio broadcast in the United States. Lehart first appeared on the Jamboree as a guest in 1965 alongside fellow musicians Charlie Moore and Bill Napier.

Early life Richard Edmond Hartley was born on June 25, 1935, in Viola, West Virginia, south of Wheeling.

In 1965, Johnny Cash opened up for him before a show in Nashville.

In 1970, Slim became the first new performer in the Jamboree to be signed to a contract. His other nickname "The Wheeling Cat," came from one of his signature songs. Lehart soon became one of the most popular regulars of the Jamboree, even being described as the West Virginia version of Elvis Presley.

Legacy On November 24, 2014, Lehart was awarded a star with his name on the Capitol Theatre's Walkway of Stars in Wheeling, which dubbed him a "Lifetime Member" of the Jamboree. The same proclamation was also issued the following year to celebrate Lehart's legacy.

Discography Singles and EPs "Sunshine In My Soul" (Deneba Records, 1972; written by Jan Crutchfield) "Just Before Goodbye" (Deneba Records, 1972; written by Allen Reynolds and J. Surber)

Retirement and personal life Lehart resided in Wheeling up until his death, and retired from music in 2017 after his wife died. Lehart was still a regular of the Jamboree up until 2005.

Death Lehart died on August 5, 2023, at a hospice care center in Wheeling, West Virginia, at the age of 88.