American country singer and songwriter Don Williams has died at the age of 78.

A rep confirmed that the Hall of Fame member died after a short illness, leaving the country music world in shock.

The death of the legendary singer who is regarded as one of the greatest and certainly most distinctive voices in country music history, comes two years after he officially retired from music.

Williams’ is best-known for his several hit tracks, which include:’Tulsa Time’, ‘Back in My Younger Days’, ‘You’re My Best Friend’, ‘Lord, I Hope This Day Is Good’, and ‘Some Broken Hearts Never Mend’ among many others.

The Texas born is survived by his wife  Joy Bucher and his two children, Gary Williams and Tim Williams.