Country Music icon Don Williams has died. Williams passed away on Friday, September 9th in Mobile, Alabama at the age of 78 from complications of emphysema. Williams death was confirmed by his publicist Kirt Webster, who stated the singer had been under the weather for the past several weeks.

Today's entertainment news has been hard for country music fans who are now mourning the loss of not one, but two very important members of the music industry Don Williams and Troy Gentry.

Country music's 'Gentle Giant' dies

Don Williams, known by friends and fans as the "Gentle Giant" and for timeless country hits such as "Tulsa Time," and "Good Ole Boys Like Me" to name just a couple began his career in the early 70s. The rugged singer became an instant hit with the female fans who adored his songs of true love, fidelity, and family.

Don Williams' hits were based on his strong beliefs

Through the years the multi-award winning Don Williams carved out quite a name for himself as a singer/songwriter and storyteller extraordinaire capturing the respect and admiration of country music fans and stars worldwide.

The Texas-born Williams sang in public for the very first time at age 3, encouraged by his mother, who also taught him to play guitar, Williams went on to become one of the most important influences in the country music industry.

Throughout his multi-decade success, Mr. Williams charted 17 number one country hits including "You're My Best Friend" his biggest hit in 1981 -- "I Believe in You." Throughout the years William's music has been respectfully covered by numerous country music artists such as Johnny Cash, Eric Clapton, Kenny Rogers, Alan Jackson and Waylon Jennings.

In 2010 Mr. Williams was rightfully inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. Besides a successful music career, Don Williams also dabbled a bit in acting taking on a couple of minor roles.

Don can be seen alongside pal film star Burt Reynolds in movies which include "W.W. and the Dixie Dancekings" and "Smokey and the Bandit II."

Don announced his retirement from the entertainment business in 2016 via statement saying that it was "time to hang up his hat and enjoy quiet time at home."

Upon hearing of the passing of the beloved singer/songwriter country music artists and fans began reacting to the news expressing their sorrow and tribute to Williams via the singer's Twitter page.

Don Williams is survived by the love of his life, wife of 57 years, Joy, two sons Gary and Timmy and four grandchildren. At this time memorial service arrangements are pending.

Rest in peace Don Williams. #DonWilliams