It was heavy hearts for Little Big Town's Kimberly Schlapman and family this Christmas. The singer's grandmother died on Dec. 23 — one day before Christmas Eve, which was her favorite day of the year.

Schlapman remembered her grandmother with a photo and heartfelt message on social media.

"This is my Grandmother Bramlett," she writes alongside a photo of grandmother smiling and holding up birthday candles that read "94." "She’s 94 and her favorite day of the year is Christmas Eve. She has hosted our family’s Christmas Eve get together for over 70 years. Last night she went home to be with her Lord and was reunited with her husband of 63 years. Today she’ll be spending Christmas Eve at the feet of Jesus. I can only imagine the celebration! Grandmother, you had the biggest heart I have ever known, and we will miss you so much. Merry Christmas."

While Christmas without her beloved grandmother was surely difficult, Schlapman shared a happier photo two days later that showed all the kids seated on a stairway in the home, donning matching pajamas. Presumably at their Christmas Eve celebration, all the children were beaming as they anxiously waited for Santa Claus to make his annual visit.

Despite the loss, Schlapman and Little Big Town had much to celebrate this year. In addition to the launch of their Ryman Auditorium residency, the group were awarded Vocal Group of the Year at the 2017 CMA Awards as well as received several Grammy nominations for their latest album, The Breaker, and previous single "Better Man." They're nominated for Best Country Album as well as Best Country/Duo Group Performance and Best Country Song for "Better Man." The 2018 awards show airs in January.

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