Country music legend Mel Tillis died early Sunday morning in Ocala, Florida, Absolute Publicity said in a news release. He was 85.
“Tillis battled intestinal issues since early 2016 and never fully recovered,” the public relations firm said. “The suspected cause of death is respiratory failure.”
Tillis — born in Tampa on August 8, 1932 — recorded over 60 albums during his career and wrote more than 1,000 songs.
His hits included “I Ain’t Never,” “Heart Healer” and “Coca-Cola Cowboy.”
Former President Obama awarded Tillis the National Medal of Arts in 2012.
This is a developing story and will be updated.
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