Hal Ketchum, 'Small Town Saturday Night' Country Singer, Dead at 67

Country singer Hal Ketchum, known for the classic song "Small Town Saturday Night," has died at 67. According to WKRN, Ketchum's wife Andrea announced his passing in a Facebook post on Tuesday. "With great sadness and grief we announce that Hal passed away peacefully last night at home due to complications of Dementia," she wrote. "May his music live on forever in your hearts and bring you peace."

Andrea had initially revealed Ketchum's diagnosis back in April, also sharing that news in a social media post. "Because of his love for his fans, he continued performing as long as it was possible. Dementia is an exhausting and confusing illness, and now it's time for Hal to stay home with loved ones," she explained. "Hal is otherwise healthy and happy, enjoying time with his family and friends. "In addition to "Small Town Saturday Night," Ketchum — a member of the Grand Ole Opry — was also known for tunes such as "I Know Where Love Lives," "Past the Point of Rescue," "Sure Love," "Stay Forever," "Hearts Are Gonna Roll" and "Mama Knows the Highway."

“There is an indescribable place on that stage where it feels like you are a part of history, a very fine history, and I really like that a lot. I felt the magic of the Opry the first time, and, so, I came to it in amazement.” - Hal Ketchum

Thank you, Hal❤️ pic.twitter.com/MBIolt6srd

— Grand Ole Opry (@opry) November 24, 2020

Many of Ketchum's fans and peers have begun taking to social media to mourn his passing with the Oak Ridge Boys writing in a tweet, "RIP brother Hal Ketchum. Just 67 years old. So sad to lose yet another one this year."

ESPN reporter Marty Smith also shared a memorial to Ketchum. "Forever grateful for the beautiful art Hal Ketchum blessed us with. Past The Point of Rescue is a legendary record. 'Gotta be bad just to have a good time...' RIP, legend."

We are sad to hear about the passing of Hal Ketchum. Prayers for his family and friends. - Hazel and Charlie Daniels, Jr. 🙏

Here's Charlie with Hal and @JohnBerryMusic, in a bluesy cover of the CDB's "Long Haired Country Boy." - TeamCDB/BW #RIPHalKetchum https://t.co/dgW4XEC0Ot

— Charlie Daniels (@CharlieDaniels) November 24, 2020

LeAnn Rimes Cibrian added, "So sad to hear that Hal Ketchum has gone to live amongst the angels. We will miss you down here, Hal! He was such a talent and a dear soul."