"Janie just called me: Ray Price left for heaven at 4:43 p.m. Central Time. He went in perfect peace. Details later. Janie and the family so grateful for your prayers. Ray's body will be received at Restland Funeral Home in Dallas."

The news comes just a day after media outlets prematurely reported Price's death. On Thursday (Dec. 12), Price returned to his ranch to receive hospice care after his ongoing battle with pancreatic cancer. His wife Janie left a message from the singer on his Facebook page, thanking fans for their support.

"I love my fans and have devoted my life to reaching out to them. I appreciate their support all these years and I hope I haven't let them down. I am at peace. I love Jesus. I'm going to be just fine. Don't worry about me. I'll see you again one day."

The 87-year-old Country Music Hall of Fame member initially gained attention for such innovative honky-tonk recordings as "Crazy Arms" and "City Lights." He would later develop a smooth countrypolitan style that led to crossovers like "For the Good Times," a song written by Kris Kristofferson that ended up being one of Price's biggest hits.