A statement from Tillis' representation said the country legend had battled with intestinal issues since early 2016 and died following a lengthy battle to regain his health.
Tillis’ suspected cause of death is respiratory failure.
The Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, who was beloved for his stutter, wrote hits for Kenny Rogers and had several top 10 country singles including 'Good Woman Blues,' 'Coca Cola Cowboy' and 'Southern Rain.'
In a statement posted to her own Facebook official page, Tillis’ daughter Pam Tillis, one of his six children, said she was 'deeply saddened' by his death.
Following the news of his passing, country musicians and fans mourned Tillis on Twitter.
Our thoughts are with Tillis' family and friends.