The country music fraternity is in mourning after it emerged that popular singers of the genre, Don Williams and Troy Gentry had passed on. According to The Guardian, Williams passed on at his home in Atlanta after a short illness. Troy Gentry, half of the popular country music duo, Montgomery Gentry, died after a tragic helicopter crash on Friday. Don Williams was aged 78 while Troy Gentry was 50 at the time of death.

Williams started his career in Portland before he moved to Nashville. Other than singing, he was a famed songwriter, writing popular hits such as Jack Clement’s Cowboy. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2010 and retired in 2016. Some of his most listened to tracks include; I Believe In You, Lord I Hope This Day Is Good, Till the Rivers All Run Dry Some Broken Hearts Never Mend, Gypsy Woman and Tulsa Time. 17 of Don Williams tracks were number one country hits in the US.

Kenny Rogers, another popular country music singer led colleagues in paying tribute to the duo. Kenny tweeted, “Sending my sincere and heartfelt prayers to the families & friends of Don Williams and Troy Gentry.” Justin Moore, another country big hitter, said, “sad day in country music. Don Williams and Troy Gentry will be missed. In shock. Thoughts and prayers to the family of a hero and a buddy.” Other start who paid tribute include Sheryl Crow and Brad Paisley.

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Don Williams, popularly known as the “gentle giant” because of his easy going nature, will be sorely missed but his memories remain in the rich music he leaves behind.