James Beverly "Hap" Townes, who served such legends as Johnny Cash, Chet Atkins, Mickey Mantle and Reggie Jackson at his namesake "meat-and-three" just beyond the Greer Stadium outfield wall, has died.

Townes, 89, died Thursday night at Vanderbilt Hospital after an extended illness.

His story, written by Tim Ghianni, was featured in the April 6 edition of the Nashville Ledger. Here are the stories Ghianni wrote on Townes and Doug Havron, who operates Gabby’s Burgers & Fries in the building formerly occupied by Hap Townes.

From simple pie wagon to Nashville tradition

Living the dream, preserving a legacy: Gabby’s owner learns a thing or two about success from his legendary predecessor