Country musician Frankie Miller, known for the midcentury hits "Blackland Farmer," "Family Man" and "Baby Rocked Her Dolly," has died. He was 95.
The singer died Aug. 29 at home in Arlington, Texas, his label, Heart of Texas Records, confirmed to USA TODAY Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Tracy Pitcox, president of Heart of Texas Records, said in a statement that Miller "remained active in the industry and continued to enjoy making music into his 90s."
The Victoria, Texas, native was born Dec. 17, 1930, and got his start with his first band in his teens before signing his first record contract. His budding music career took a hiatus for two years in the 1950s when he served in the Korean War, where he received the Bronze Star and reached the rank of sergeant.
After his return, he signed to Columbia Records and released the tracks "Hey Where Ya Goin?" and "It's No Big Thing." He later signed a new deal with Starday Records, where he released his 1959 signature song, "Blackland Farmer," about a hardworking "simple man," which he said was inspired by an "old uncle."
The Top 5 Billboard country track was eventually followed by the Top 10 country track "Family Man" and Top 40 country tracks "Baby Rocked Her Dolly" and "A Little South of Memphis."
Frankie Miller cause of death
The artist died from natural causes after "several bouts" of pneumonia and being placed on hospice days before.
Over the course of his career, Miller toured with country music icons including Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline and Willie Nelson. He left the music business by the late 1960s, but returned in the '90s, touring overseas through his 80s. In 2005, Miller signed his final contract, with Heart of Texas Records. He released his last full-length album, "A Friend Remembered: My Tribute To George Jones," in 2020.
The singer last performed in 2021 as a special guest of Nelson, a longtime friend, at his annual Luck Reunion.
Miller is preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Ann. He is survived by daughters Sandi Wilson and Lori Chaney, 6 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held on Sept. 19, in Texas, his label added.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Frankie Miller, known for country hit 'Blackland Farmer,' dies at 95
