Country music legend Merle Haggard, best known for hits such as "Okie from Muskogee" and "Mama Tried," passed away earlier today, on his birthday, at the age of 79. The musician's manager confirmed the singer and actor's death to the Associated Press . Merle Haggard's health had been failing in recent months, as he battled double pneumonia. He was forced to cancel a number of concerts over the past few months due to his health. The musician's son, Ben Haggard, released a statement on his Facebook page earlier today, revealing that his father had actually predicted he would die on his birthday.
"A week ago dad told us he was gonna pass on his birthday, and he wasn't wrong. A hour ago he took his last breath surrounded by family and friends. He loved everything about life and he loved that everyone of you gave him a chance with his music.
"A week ago dad told us he was gonna pass on his birthday, and he wasn't wrong. A hour ago he took his last breath surrounded by family and friends. He loved everything about life and he loved that everyone of you gave him a chance with his music.
- 4/6/2016
- by MovieWeb
- MovieWeb
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