Country music legend George Jones, also known as “The Possum” has reportedly passed away today. This comes after reports came last week of Jones suffering from a fever and irregular blood pressure. Jones, 81, was in the midst of a year-long “grand” tour, which was scheduled to conclude in Nashville this November and mark the beginning of his retirement.

Throughout his career, Jones garnered fame for his exploits as a drinker and for his often scandalous relationships, he’s procured the jealousy of famed singers, such as Waylon Jennings, who has sung, “If we all could sound like we wanted to, we’d all sound like George Jones.”

Born in Saratoga, Texas, George Jones started his music career by busking on the streets. After his enlistment in the Marine Corps., Jones’ career started off. He was, however, plagued by his own alcoholism. A famed tale of Jones driving a lawn-mower to the bar when his wife hid his car keys in addition to his knack for not showing up to scheduled performances gave rise to Jones’ nickname “No-Show Jones.”

His fame was solidified with hits like “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “White Lightning,” and “Walk Through This World With Me.” Jones was bestowed various honors throughout his extensive career, including “Most Promising New Country Vocalist” in 1956, and being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1992. In 2012 he was presented a lifetime achievement award in 2012 by his friend Merle Haggard. He was a Grand Ole Opry member since 1956.

— SO! Editorial Staff