Fans and music lovers were left in disbelief and questioned the truth behind the devastating news. Could it really be? The world soon received confirmation – the icon left us.

“With a heavy heart, we share the news that our husband/father/grandfather Kris Kristofferson peacefully died on Saturday 28th September,” his family wrote on Sunday, September 29, in a statement via Instagram. “

We are so blessed for our time. Thank you for loving him all these years, and when you see that we are smiling at us all.”In the post containing black and white photography Kristofferson came to the conclusion: “The family asks for privacy during this time.”Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum Ceo Kyle Young also paid tribute to Kristofferson through social media.

“Kris Kristofferson believed that creativity was donated by God, and those who ignore such a gift are doomed to the disaster,” the statement read on Sunday. “He preached that the life of the mind gives the soul a voice and his work gave the voice not only to his soul but also to ours. He leaves a stunning heritage.”