Glen Campbell, the country singer known for hits such as "Rhinestone Cowboy" and "Country Boy," has died at 81.
Campbell died Tuesday around 10 a.m. in a Nashville facility for Alzheimer's patients. A
post on his website confirmed the heartbreaking news:
"It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and legendary singer and guitarist, Glen Travis Campbell, at the age of 81, following his long and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease ... In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Glen Campbell Memorial Fund at BrightFocus Foundation through the CareLiving.org donation page."
The family added: "A personal statement from Kim Campbell will follow. The family appreciates your prayers and respect for their privacy at this time."
Campbell was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2011, though he had been suffering from short-term memory loss for years. He lived full-time in the Nashville care facility where he was cared for by a family friend and personal sitter named Brody along with his main caregiver. His wife, Kim Woolen, visited him daily.
A heartbreaking documentary released in 2015, "Glen Campbell: I'll Be Me," followed the singer and his family on his 2011 tour as his memory declined.
The Arkansas-born musician released more than 70 albums, sold over 45 million records, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and won 10 Grammy Awards and 10 Academy of Country Music Awards.
He has performed with a slew of legendary musicians, including Dean Martin, Nat King Cole and Elvis Presley. Campbell also had several acting roles to his name -- he starred in "True Grit" with John Wayne and "Norwood" with Joe Namath. He hosted his own variety show, The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour on CBS from 1969-72.
Campbell is survived by his wife of 35 years Kim, daughters Ashley, Debbie and Kelli and sons Cal, Dylan, Kane, Shannon and Travis.
