Country music fans were left saddened this week to learn that beloved singer and songwriter Kinky Friedman passed away at the age of 79.

Friedman's passing was confirmed to Fox News on Thursday by friend and collaborator Cleve Hattersley, who indicated that the musician died at his childhood home of Parkinson’s.

Friedman had a long and unique career

Fox News noted that Friedman was born in Chicago but grew up in Texas, where he would run for governor in 2006 as part of a six-way race.

Although Friedman lost the race, Friedman was affectionately referred to by his fans as "the Governor of the Heart of Texas."

During his career, the musician toured with Bob Dylan and performed at the Grand Ole Opry while releasing songs known for their eccentric lyrics.

Many referenced Friedman's Jewish heritage, with examples including "Meshugganah Rag," "They Ain't Makin' Jews Like Jesus Anymore," and "Ride 'Em Jewboy."

Radio host says Friedman was "truly unique soul"

Friedman's talents weren't limited to music, as he was also a novelist who wrote such books as "Elvis, Jesus and Coca-Cola" and "God Bless John Wayne."

Friedman's passing was met with tributes on social media, including from San Antonio radio host Chris Duel, who wrote, "Today, the Great State of Texas and the world lost a legendary singer, songwriter, and a truly unique soul."

Today, the Great State of Texas and the world lost a legendary singer, songwriter, and a truly unique soul. Kinky Friedman was not only a brilliant artist but also a kind, funny, and wise man. I had the privilege of knowing him personally, and his generosity and humor always left… pic.twitter.com/7gmg3KNZnd

— Chris Duel (@ChrisDuel) June 27, 2024

Duel went on to call Friedman "a brilliant artist" as well as "a kind, funny, and wise man." He added, "I had the privilege of knowing him personally, and his generosity and humor always left a lasting impression on everyone he met."

Fox News reported that friend Kent Perkins spoke up as well in a Facebook post, stating that Friedman "leaves a legacy of laughter, music, loyalty, mercy, tolerance, servitude, and wisdom."

Singer "devoted much of his life to serving others"

"He was famous as a best-selling author, humorist, songwriter, and singer," Perkins said of Friedman, adding that he was "a rescuer of unwanted dogs and cats, a compassionate, philanthropic, soft-spoken man who devoted much of his life to serving others less fortunate."

"He and his sister Marcie founded the Echo Hill Gold Star Camp. It is in session now, for kids who've lost a parent to military, police, fire, or EMS service," Perkins pointed out.

"I learned a lot from Kinky. I never met a more honest, witty, selfless, generous, or sincere person than Richard Samet 'Kinky' Friedman," he added.