Sad news to report from Nashville. Country singer Joe Diffie has passed away due to complications from Coronavirus. Diffie was sixty-one.
A few days ago, the singer announced that he had been diagnosed with the virus and asked for privacy, but reminded fans to be careful and cautious during the pandemic. Today, a statement announcing his passing was posted to the page.
“GRAMMY®-winning country music legend Joe Diffie passed away today, Sunday, March 29 from complications of coronavirus (COVID-19). His family requests privacy at this time,” the post read.
Diffie rose to country music fame in the 90s with hits like “John Deere Green”, “Bigger than the Beatles” and “Third Rock from the Sun.” He also wrote hits for other country artists, including Jo Dee Messina, Tim McGraw and George Jones.
Country music stars reacted to his death on Twitter.
How can this be??? Another dear friend & legend gone?!! @JoeDiffieOnline has passed away from Coronavirus. He was an incredible talent, loyal friend & one of the best souls you’d ever want to meet…. God be with us all during this time, RIP…. #rip #joediffie
– @JayDeMarcus pic.twitter.com/sTcFivnMWK— Rascal Flatts (@rascalflatts) March 29, 2020
I’m devastated by the loss of my friend @JoeDiffieOnline. I can’t find adequate words. But the records he made, that voice, the twinkle in his eye, and our memories cannot be taken away by this disease.
Please celebrate his music today everyone, go listen again to his records. pic.twitter.com/OYiyPTbLCy— Brad Paisley (@BradPaisley) March 29, 2020