Country music singer and Grand Ole Opry member Hal Ketchum passed away at age 67 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. His wife Andrea announced that he died peacefully at their Nashville home.

During his 30+ year career, Ketchum released 11 studio albums and was known for hits like "Small Town Saturday Night," "Past the Point of Rescue," "Hearts Are Gonna Roll," and "Stay Forever." Beyond music, he was an accomplished painter with works displayed in Santa Fe's Pena Studio Gallery and a skilled carpenter who crafted toys.

Fellow artists shared tributes following news of his passing:

• Kelly Willis recalled proudly sharing the Austin City Limits stage with him in 1994
• LeAnn Rimes called him "such a talent and a dear soul"
• Elizabeth Cook remembered him as an incredible performer and friendly presence
• The Oak Ridge Boys expressed sadness at losing "yet another one this year"

Ketchum joins other legendary country artists who passed in 2020, including Kenny Rogers, Charlie Daniels, Joe Diffie, and John Prine. He had retired from performing in April 2019 after battling Alzheimer's disease "for some time."

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