Porter Wagoner dies of lung cancer

[Christine]

http://www.countrystandardtime.com/news ... ung_cancer

Sunday, October 28, 2007 – Porter Wagoner, 80, died tonight at 8:25 at Alive Hospice in Nashville after being diagnosed with lung cancer earlier this month.

The Missouri native, known for his rhinestone suits, had a long career, which included a series of hits with Dolly Parton. His most recent disc was released in June and produced by Marty Stuart.

"The Grand Ole Opry family is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of our dear friend, Porter Wagoner. His passion for the Opry and all of country music was truly immeasurable. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time," said Pete Fisher, vice-president and general manager of The Grand Ole Opry.

Born in West Plains, Mo. in 1927, Wagoner was first a local radio fixture on his way to becoming a pillar of the Grand Ole Opry, a hit recording artist, television icon and a Country Music Hall of Fame member.

Beginning in the early 1950s, Wagoner had more than 80 charting singles, including more than 25 top 10 hits. Hits including "Misery Loves Company," "I've Enjoyed As Much of This As I Can Stand," "The Cold Hard Facts of Life," "The Carroll County Accident" and "A Satisfied Mind" were considered hard-country classics.

The Porter Wagoner Show ran for 21 years, beginning in 1961, and reached more than 100 TV markets. It was on the show that Wagoner introduced fans to Parton. Their duets yielded many hits, winning a Grammy and three CMA Duo of the Year Awards.

On May 19, the Opry honored Wagoner for his 50 years as an Opry member and celebrated with him the acclaim of what would be his final recording project, "Wagonmaster."

Wagoner is survived by three children, Richard, Debra and Denise. Visitation and funeral arrangements are incomplete at this time.

[lilyjohn]

This really saddens me. I met him once at Opry Land. He was a very pleasant person and he will be missed in the Country Music world.