It is with great sorrow that the world mourns the passing of Tennessee Ernie Ford, who died on October 17, 1991 at the age of 72. Born Ernest Jennings Ford on February 13, 1919 in Bristol, Tennessee, Ford launched his career in music in the 1940s. His rich baritone voice and impressive vocal range made him one of the most popular singers of the 1950s and 1960s. He was best known for his multi-million selling No. 1 hit "Sixteen Tons" which was released in 1955 and remains his most popular song. For his contributions to country and gospel music, Ford was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1990. He also enjoyed a long career as a television personality, hosting his own variety show for six seasons on NBC. Ford is survived by his wife of 48 years, Betty; four children, and eight grandchildren. He will be greatly missed.