A beloved country hitmaker with more than six decades of music has sadly passed away. Ronnie Dove died on September 15.
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It was just days after his 91st birthday. Dove wrote a number of country and pop hits throughout the '60s, '70s, and '80s. His wife, Marty, confirmed his passing on his Facebook.
"The love of my life is now at rest," she wrote. "He passed peacefully this morning with me by his side. There will be no funeral. He will be cremated and in a few months I would like to have a Celebration of Life. Darlene or I will keep you informed of the arrangements. For now please know that Ronnie is in a better place."
Following the announcement, several colleagues and fans took to the comment section to mourn the hitmaker.
Hitmaker Dies at 91
One fan wrote of Dove, "Marty so sorry to hear this tragic news. Thank you for loving him as you did all these many years. I also want to thank you for being an amazing step mother to all of his children. You are in our prayers that our dear lord will bring you much need comfort. May Ronnie rest in eternal peace."
Another also wrote, "I've been going to his concerts and listening to his music since the 70s - still have many of his records and CDs. He was a great entertainer and was always so friendly. So sorry for your loss but we can all treasure our memories!"
Dove will be remembered for his songs such as "Say You" and "Right or Wrong." He had just released his last album earlier this year.
"The Maryland music scene and beyond is a little less brighter today," singer Dean Crawford also wrote. "The legendary Ronnie Dove has passed on leaving legions of fans and friends to mourn his passing. Ronnie was more than just an outstanding entertainer and incredibly gifted vocalist, he was the peoples man!! He was the most accessible entertainer I have ever met. 15 years ago, he inducted me into the Maryland Music Hall of Fame and I will always remember his words of wisdom to me. He said, 'Dean, always remember the fans are the ones that gives us wings to fly' and these are words I continue to live by. Thank you Ronnie for setting such high standards for all of us to follow and emulate. Condolences to his wife Marty and family. Fly high with the angels."
