Country Music Legend George Jones Dead at 81

Sad news out of the music world, as a legend in country music, George Jones, has passed away at the age of 81. 

Blake Shelton, country singer a judge on 'The Voice' broke the news to most via twitter, and it has since been confirmed by Jones' publicist.

Here is an excerpt from the message sent out by the publicist this morning:

Country Music Hall of Famer, Grand Ole Opry member, and Kennedy Center Honoree George Glenn Jones died Friday, April 26, 2013 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. He was hospitalized April 18 with fever and irregular blood pressure.

George Jones led a life that saw him at the top of the country music charts, and was influential to countless artists over the years. He had some wild times in his early years, including his battle with alcoholism.

A notorious story from Jones' second marriage was when he used a tractor to drive to the liquor store because his then wife, Shirley Corley, had taken away all the car keys.

Jones also spent six years married to fellow country music legend Tammy Wynette, who passed away in 1998.

He is survived by his wife of the last 30-years, Nancy Jones and all his children and grandchildren.

[WGNA]