Country music icon Don Schlitz has sadly died at the age of 73.
His death was announced in a statement issued by the Grand Ole Opry on Facebook. Don, best known for writing the hit song The Gambler, suffered a sudden illness before his death, with details of the illness yet to be revealed. He died on Thursday, April 16, at a Nashville hospital.
The Grand Ole Opry said in their statement, “We’re heartbroken to share the passing of someone who brought insurmountable joy to everyone here at the Opry, Opry member Don Schlitz.
“Schlitz was among the most influential and beloved songwriters in the history of Country Music. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame member penned several chart-topping songs we all know and love.”
Don’s hit songs were described as “touchstones and inspirations that continue to influence songwriters and singers decades after they were written.” The statement continued, “His words and music have articulated the extraordinary emotions inherent in common experience.”
Dan Rogers, Grand Ole Opry Executive Producer, shared, “How ironic that a man who had such an incredible way with words has left so many of us without any,. Don was a gift to country music and a most beloved part of our Opry family. He was a hero and a friend, and we will never forget him.”
The Grand Ole Opry’s statement concluded, “And, as Kenny Rogers once noted, “Don didn’t just write songs, he wrote careers.” Saturday’s Grand Ole Opry Show will be dedicated in his honor.”
Fans took to the comments of the Facebook post to share their own tributes for Don.
“Such a wonderful man. I was able to meet him backstage at the Opry in December. Felt so honored that he took the time to chat with our group,” one person reminisced.
Another commented, “Me and my family took a trip to Nashville, and we saw Don Schlitz perform at the Opry and his performance left a incredible impression on me. I was just thinking about him yesterday RIP.”
“Sad to hear this news today but honoured that I have the memory of seeing him perform when I visited the Opry last year,” a third fan added. “RIP.”
One more fan wrote, “Aww. So sad to hear of the true gentleman’s passing. Incredible talent, incredible songwriter and incredible showman. Saw him in the Grand Ol Opry in Oct 2024.”
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.the-express.com ’
