Burl Ives, the beloved singer, actor, and folk musician whose career spanned more than six decades, passed away on April 14, 1995. He was 85 years old. Ives was born in Jasper County, Illinois on June 14, 1909 to a family of modest means. He expressed an interest in music from a young age, and began performing at local dances and gatherings when he was still a pre-teen. He attended Eastern Illinois State Teacher's College to pursue music and art, then moved to Hollywood in the late 1930s. His career took off in 1940 when he joined the U.S. Army, where he was assigned to entertain troops around the world with his unique blend of folk and popular music. During the height of his popularity in the 1950s, he released many classic, award-winning albums and singles, including “Blue Tail Fly” and “I See Good Things in the Future.” His 1955 Album, “The Wayfaring Stranger,” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004. Ives also enjoyed a long and successful acting career, appearing in over 40 films and television shows, including Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and The Big Country. He won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in The Big Country. Ives was active in the civil rights movement and inspired many with his activism and willingness to stand up for what he believed in. He is survived by his wife, Helen, and daughter, Sarah. He will be remembered fondly as a passionate musician, actor, and activist.