eddie rabbitt

May they rest in peace ...

For the week starting Feb. 10, 1979, Rabbitt hit No. 1 on the charts with "Every Which Way But Loose."

It's more tragic when it's unexpected, as is the case with these country singers who died before their time.

No parent should ever have to bury a son or daughter -- and yet, several country stars have had to endure such a grief-filled event.

There are many -- too many -- country stars who have had cancer or have been personally affected by it in some way.

Tragedy can strike anyone, from a neighbor next door to family members to some of the biggest superstars in the world.