Mel Tillis, iconic country music singer and songwriter, has passed away at the age of 85.
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.
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Following the news of his passing, country musicians and fans mourned Tillis on Twitter.
What a truly devastating loss. I loved Mel. I will miss him terribly. My thoughts and prayers to all his family.
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) November 19, 2017
I’m saddened to hear of the passing of my friend, Mel Tillis. Sending my love and prayers to his family and friends. There will never be another Mel Tillis!❤️ #MelTillis #HeavenEveryday @PamTillis
— Crystal Gayle (@TheCrystalGayle) November 19, 2017
Mel Tillis, you will be missed by so many of us you touched over the years.
— Charlie Daniels (@CharlieDaniels) November 19, 2017
Rest in peace my friend.
Sad news—Mel Tillis died. More than just a country star he was an authentic gentleman. He leaves a legacy of great music and a great daughter the lovely and talented @PamTillis https://t.co/06w375kHDf
— Gov. Mike Huckabee (@GovMikeHuckabee) November 19, 2017
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Our thoughts are with Tillis’ family and friends.
Grace is the Digital Content Editor at New Idea. Grace is a lifestyle junkie who has previously interned at Dolly, Stellar and marie claire, as well having written in the fashion and beauty sections at Finder.com.au. When not working, you can find Grace heading for the slopes, playing with her pup or stuck in a seemingly endless Instagram scroll.
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