NASHVILLE (AP) — Little Jimmy Dickens entertained audiences at the Grand Ole Opry with humorous songs until shortly before his death on Friday at the age of 94.

Appropriately, his Thursday funeral will take place at the Opry, on the same stage where he often joked about his 4-foot-11 height and his age.

His novelty songs included "May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose." It was his biggest hit and earned him a spot in the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983.

Dickens had performed on the Opry almost continuously since 1948. His last performance was Dec. 20 as part of his 94th birthday celebration.

Dolly Parton issued a statement saying she often performs Dickens' song "I'm Little But I'm Loud." She said he will always be loved and remembered.