Mel Tillis, Country Music Legend Dies At Age 85

Country music legend Mel Tillis died early Sunday morning in Ocala, Florida, Absolute Publicity said in a news release. He was 85.

"Tillis battled intestinal issues since early 2016 and never fully recovered," the public relations firm said. "The suspected cause of death is respiratory failure." 

Tillis -- born in Tampa on August 8, 1932 -- recorded over 60 albums during his career and wrote more than 1,000 songs.

His hits included "I Ain't Never," "Heart Healer" and "Coca-Cola Cowboy." 

Former President Obama awarded Tillis the National Medal of Arts in 2012.

This is a developing story and will be updated.