Ralph Stanley Dead - Bluegrass Legend Dies At 89

Bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley has passed away at the age of 89 on Thursday (June 23) in Sandy Ridge, Virginia.

Ralph died at his home due to difficulties with skin cancer, publicist Kirt Webster confirmed. He was a member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Bluegrass Hall of Fame.

“My heart is broken into pieces. My papaw, my dad, and the greatest man in the world, Dr. Ralph Stanley has went home to be with Jesus just a few minutes ago,” Ralph‘s grandson Nathan Stanley wrote in his touching Facebook post. “He went peacefully in his sleep due to a long, horrible battle with Skin Cancer. I feel so lost and so alone right now. He was my world, and he was my everything. He was always there for me no matter what. I just cannot get a grip on this. My Papaw was loved by millions of fans from all around the world, and he loved all of you. If he was singing snd on sage, he was happy. That’s why I did so much to make it possible for him to travel in the last two years. Because he wanted to. Please keep me and my family in your prayers. This is the hardest thing I have ever had to face in my life. The only thing that gives me peace, is knowing he is in paradise and I’ll see my best friend again. I love you papaw with all of my heart. As long as I live and breathe, your legacy will never die. You will forever be in my heart.”

Our thoughts are with Ralph‘s friends and family during this difficult time.