When Martina McBride and Darius Rucker took the stage to present Vocal Group of the Year at the 2016 ACM Awards, they also took a moment to honor Joey Feek of Joey + Rory, who passed away from cancer almost exactly one month ago, on March 4.

Amidst the excitement of the ACMs, it was touching to see the somber moment. McBride told the audience that it felt right to simply "give her a big round of applause," which they did -- and gladly. The audience stood to its feet as a photo of Feek was shown in the background, portraying her as we all hope to remember her: vibrant and smiling.

McBride added, "Rory's daughter Hopie and friend Julie are here with us tonight. God bless them, and God bless you Joey."

Joey entered home hospice care in November, and though she was prepared to pass away, she was able to celebrate many moments her family will remember for a lifetime. From watching the snow fall (which she never thought she'd see again) to celebrating holidays, witnessing her daughter Indy’s second birthday, being nominated for Best Country Duo / Group Performance at the 2016 Grammy Awards and more, her last months were full of joy.

When she passed, her husband Rory wrote on his blog, “My wife’s greatest dream came true today. She is in Heaven. The cancer is gone, the pain has ceased, and all her tears are dry. Joey is in the arms of her beloved brother Justin and using her pretty voice to sing for her savior.”

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