Charlie Louvin, Country Music Hall of Famer with local ties, dies at 83

Americana Music Festival September 10, 2010, in Nashville, TN. CharlieLouvin.net.http://charlielouvin.net/

Charlie Louvin, most famously associated with the country duo the Louvin Brothers, died early today. After a brave fight with pancreatic cancer he succumbed to illness at 83 years old, reads the statement by his Pinellas-based manager Brett Steele. In the early morning of Jan. 26, Louvin passed away at his home in Wartrace, Tenn., surrounded by family. Louvin is survived by his wife Betty, and three sons, Charlie Jr. (Sonny), Glenn and Kenneth. A private funeral for Louvin will be held in Nashville, on Sunday, Jan. 30.

"I love people, y'know?" Louvin said when I asked what keeps him touring for a St. Petersburg Times story that ran in 2009. "I know entertainers who do their show and go hide. I don't do that. So I'll keep working as long as the good Lord gives me breath. But if I get to where they have to use that Pro Tools (digital help) on me, I'll quit!"

Louvin had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2010 and had subsequently undergone surgery to help combat the disease. The surgery was limited in its success, but Louvin’s health was stable enough that he was able to enjoy his love of performing live up until the end of his life, reads the statement.

Charlie Louvin (left), Elizabeth Tatangelo, Wade Tatangelo by Sonny Louvin.

My sister Elizabeth Tatangelo and I met Louvin about a year ago outside his home in Tennessee while driving from Florida to Colorado. He was a sweet, Southern gentleman who will be missed by many. Luckily, he left much great music behind, both as solo act and the immortal recordings he made with brother Ira Louvin.