Country singer Don Williams has died after a short illness.
A rep confirmed the death, which comes two years after the 78-year-old Country Hall Of Famer officially retired from music.
Known affectionately as the ‘gentle giant’ due to his 6ft1 frame, Williams had 16 number one country hits during his long career.
Country singer Don Williams has died aged 78 after a ‘short illness’, his rep confirmed to The Tennessean
He became known as a singer as a member of the folk trio the Pozo Seco Singers, which had a string of hits in the 60s, before he struck out alone.
Williams’ best known work includes the tracks Tulsa Time, Back in My Younger Days, You’re My Best Friend, Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good, and Some Broken Hearts Never Mend.
Icon: Williams’ best known work includes the tracks Tulsa Time, Back in My Younger Days, You’re My Best Friend, Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good, and Some Broken Hearts Never Mend (he is seen in 1977)
In 2016 unexpected hip surgery forced Williams to cancel tour dates, and he announced his retirement a month later.
‘It’s time to hang my hat up and enjoy some quiet time at home. I’m so thankful for my fans, my friends and my family for their everlasting love and support, he said in a statement at the time.
The ‘Gentle Giant’: Williams owed his affectionate nickname to his 6ft1 frame