Ronnie James Dio Dead

Heavy metal rock legend Ronnie James Dio has lost his battle with stomach cancer.

The former Black Sabbath vocalist passed away in a Houston hospital on Sunday, The Chicago Tribune confirmed this evening. His solo hits included “Rainbow In The Dark,” ‘‘The Last In Line” and “Holy Diver.” Dio revealed last summer that he was suffering from advanced cancer shortly after wrapping up a tour in Atlantic City, New Jersey. After undergoing a vigorous bout of chemotherapy, in recent months Dio had been hopeful that his condition would improve.

“Wendy, my doctors and I have worked so hard to make it happen for all of you, the ones we care so much about, that this setback could be devastating, but we will not let it be,” an inspired Ronnie told fans after the cancellation of Heaven & Hell summer tour earlier this month. “With your continued love and support, we … will carry on and thrive. There will be other tours, more music, more life and much more magic.”

“Today my heart is broken. Ronnie passed away at 7:45am [on Sunday] 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private goodbyes before he peacefully passed away. Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you all have given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever,” his wife Wendy Dio wrote in a statement on Dio’s official website on Sunday.

Ronnie was 67.