It’s with a heavy heart that we’re sharing this…
Country Music hit-maker Joe Diffie died this past Sunday, March 29, 2020 after complications related to Coronavirus, his publicist said in a press release.
During the ’90s, Diffie was absolutely crushing it in the country music industry. He made 13 albums with chart-topping hits such as “Pickup Man”, “Third Rock from The Sun”, “If the Devil Danced”, “Bigger Than the Beatles” and “Home.”
“Home”
Back in 2002, the Tulsa native was inducted into the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Grand Ole Opry for more than 25 years and earned both a Grammy and a Country Music Award.
Joe Diffie was born on December 28, 1958. His birth name is Joe Logan Diffie. Luckily his family had a musical background family. His father’s name was Joe Riley Diffie and his mother’s name was Flora Diffie.
His father and mother became his biggest mentors as they were both into the music business. His father was a guitarist while his mother was a well-established singer. After completing his high school education he joined Cameron University situated in Lawton, Oklahoma where he took the education in the medical field.
RIP Joe Diffie
Two days before his death, the 61-year-old announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19, which is the disease caused by the coronavirus.
“I am under the care of medical professionals and currently receiving treatment. My family and I are asking for privacy at this time,” he wrote. “We want to remind the public and all my fans to be vigilant, cautious and careful during this pandemic.”
As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from country stars across the nation.
“I’m devastated by the loss of my friend @JoeDiffieOnline. I can’t find adequate words,” tweeted Brad Paisley alongside a clip of him singing with Diffie. “But the records he made, that voice, the twinkle in his eye, and our memories cannot be taken away by this disease.”
Paisley urged fans to “celebrate” Diffie’s music today and listen to his records.
I’m devastated by the loss of my friend @JoeDiffieOnline. I can’t find adequate words. But the records he made, that voice, the twinkle in his eye, and our memories cannot be taken away by this disease.
— Brad Paisley (@BradPaisley) March 29, 2020
Please celebrate his music today everyone, go listen again to his records. pic.twitter.com/OYiyPTbLCy
Absolutely no words for the loss of Joe Diffie. The music and legacy he leaves behind are legendary. Prayers for his family and friends. 💔
— Carrie Underwood (@carrieunderwood) March 29, 2020
Joe Diffie’s neighborhood held a parade in his honor last night, with John Deere tractors leadin’ the way. RIP. pic.twitter.com/c7p75imD4E
— Cloyd Rivers (@CloydRivers) March 31, 2020
Oh my God. One of the all-time GREAT vocalists. Joe Diffie was my friend. RIP, buddy. @JoeDiffieOnline pic.twitter.com/snWhL5fcLo
— Trace Adkins (@TraceAdkins) March 29, 2020
A tribute to my friend, my favorite song of his…. Gone too soon, and forever will be missed… Rest In Peace, Joe Diffie. #shipsthatdontcomein – @JayDeMarcus pic.twitter.com/c3zRHiiAXx
— Rascal Flatts (@rascalflatts) March 30, 2020
Joe Diffie will be deeply missed ❤️ pic.twitter.com/qjeyZmOkU0
— CMT (@CMT) March 29, 2020
Can’t believe the news about Joe Diffie ……. my heart breaks for your family and friends – and fans …….
— Keith Urban (@KeithUrban) March 29, 2020
count me right in there too – you were THE REAL DEAL JOE…
😞🙏 -KU
Joe Diffie was always good to me when I was just getting started and I was in awe of him every time we did a show together. He was a true hero and he will be played LOUDLY at our home all today.
— Blake Shelton (@blakeshelton) March 30, 2020
Beyond sadness. Beyond a loss for words. My thoughts and prayers for Joe Diffie’s family and fans. pic.twitter.com/Mbfo1KQ8g4
— Billy Ray Cyrus (@billyraycyrus) March 30, 2020