The country music world is grieving the loss of a beloved icon, who passed away in late June at the age of 79 at his home in Texas. The news, shared through a heartfelt social media post on June 27, revealed that he spent his final moments at Echo Hill Ranch in Medina, surrounded by family and close friends.
The announcement tenderly stated, “He stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill, surrounded by those he held dear. Despite enduring immense pain and unimaginable loss in recent years, he never lost his fighting spirit and sharp wit.”
In 2006, he garnered significant media attention when he ran for governor against Rick Perry, ultimately finishing fourth. He also pursued the Democratic nomination for agriculture commissioner in 2010 and 2014, though he was not successful.
Clive Hattersley, a longtime friend, remembered him as an extraordinary communicator who could evoke deep emotions, whether through tears or laughter. Hattersley also noted that he had been battling Parkinson’s disease.
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