Earl Thomas Conley Dead - Country Singer Dies at 77

Earl Thomas Conley has sadly died.

The country singer-songwriter, who racked up 18 No. 1 hits in his career, died on Wednesday (April 10) in Nashville, Tenn. while in hospice care, his brother confirmed to CNN.

“We are heartbroken. The light has dimmed but his light will shine on in his music. A lot of people don’t realize he was not just an artist who performed music, but he was a very talented artist who painted and sculpted. He could create anything with his hands,” said his partner Carol Scates in a statement.

“My heart is absolutely destroyed today… I’m sad to report that Earl Thomas Conley passed away very early this morning. Earl was my all time favorite singer, hero and my friend. Prayers to his family. We will all miss you deeply my brother. Now go rest…” said Blake Shelton.

Our thoughts are with Earl‘s loved ones at this difficult time.