Johnny Cash gave his final public performance on July 5, 2003, just weeks before his death. Despite his frailty and health issues, he showcased his defiant spirit. Cash, accompanied by bassist Bobby Starnes and guitarist Jerry Hensley, greeted the crowd with his trademark phrase and performed a 30-minute set at the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Va. He addressed the audience, expressing his love and admiration for his recently deceased wife, June Carter Cash. Cash played some of his iconic songs, including "Folsom Prison Blues" and "Ring of Fire," before ending the performance with "Understand Your Man." He passed away on September 12, 2003.