Beloved country band's founding member dies after lengthy illness

Wayne Secrest, one of the founding members of the country band Confederate Railroad, passed away at the age of 68.

The musician, who struggled with several health problems throughout the years, forcing him to retire back in 2017, was a particularly exceptional bass player and drew his last breath on June 2, 2018.

The news of his passing was announced by his bandmates through the Confederate Railroad's Facebook page, saddening their legion of fans throughout the world.

Although Secrest didn't share the same celebrity status as Willie Nelson, Carried Underwood or George Strait, he was still a very famous name in the country music industry.

He was one of Confederate Railroad's original members and saw the group go through many adventures ever since it started as a backup band for outlaw country acts David Allan Coe and Johnny Paycheck.

But being a backup band wasn't enough, and eventually, Confederate Railroad struck a record deal with Atlantic Records, which helped them become with the most thrilling bands of the 90s.

Secrest helped compose hits such as Daddy Never Was The Caddilac Kind, Queen of Memphis and Trashy Women, driving country fans wild over their edgy attitude on stage.

Secrest was very dear to those who knew him and was described as a simple man with simple tastes. Cody McCarver, one of his former bandmates, was among the first people to pay tribute to the country legend.

"Last night the world lost a great man. My friend for years and a friend to many many people. He was a bass player but more than that he was an awesome person. This Sunday morning he is rejoicing with Jesus in heaven... I have no doubt. No more pain brother."

Cody McCarver, Facebook, June 3, 2018

Confederate Railroad will now have to move forward and keep Secrest's legacy alive through the massive contribution he gave to the country music industry by giving their best at every gig.