Ray Price ‘Failing Steadily’ During Home Hospice Stay
Following premature reports of Ray Price's death on Sunday (Dec. 15), fans have been eager to know how the 87-year-old is faring. Reports from two people close to the situation indicate that the 'Crazy Arms' singer's health is "failing steadily" while his family keeps a bedside vigil.
Hall of Fame radio deejay Bill Mack has been sharing news as it happens, beginning with posts Sunday afternoon and the latest being Monday afternoon (Dec. 16). The family friend reported on Price's health at 11:30 and 2:30 local time, after conversations with the legend's wife, Janie. Virgie Phillips has been another reliable source for fans during a difficult couple of months for the Price family. She shares that Janie is remaining by her husband's bed, holding his had even as friends urge her to get some rest.
Friends and fans have been a great source of inspiration for the Prices. On Sunday, Willie Nelson and Larry Gatlin called to tell the legend they love him.
"Thank you for your love and concern ... along with your needed prayers. God bless you. Thanks for being there," Mack tells fans.
Price announced last week that he was ending aggressive treatments for his pancreatic cancer. He'd been battling the disease for over two years, but only revealed his diagnosis in November 2012. The Country Music Hall of Fame singer enjoyed a 65-year career, with hits across four separate decades.
UPDATE: Ray Price died in his Texas home around 4:43CT on Monday, Dec. 16. More information here.