What Did Randy Travis Die Of? Looking Back at His Health Struggles

Randy Travis' Rise to Fame

Randy Bruce Traywick was born in 1959 in Marshville, North Carolina. He legally changed his name to Randy Travis when he began his music career in the 1980s. His rich baritone voice and traditional style quickly made him a star in the neotraditional country movement. His 1986 album Storms of Life launched him into mainstream success with hits like "On the Other Hand" and "Diggin' Up Bones."

Over his career, Randy charted 17 #1 hits, won 7 Grammy awards, and became a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame. Some of his most popular songs include "Forever and Ever, Amen", "Three Wooden Crosses", "I Told You So", and "Deeper Than the Holler." He collaborated with artists like George Jones and crossed over into gospel music as well.

Randy Travis' History of Health Problems

Behind the scenes, Randy Travis struggled with health issues for much of his adult life. In his 20s, he was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, a disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for the heart to pump blood. He took medication to control this condition for the rest of his life.

Later in life, Randy developed type 2 diabetes as well as hypertension. His drinking also aggravated his conditions. In 2012, police arrested Randy for a DUI after he crashed his car in a construction zone. It was apparent that alcohol abuse and poor health was threatening to derail his career.

Viral Infection and Stroke in 2013

In the summer of 2013, Randy's health took a catastrophic turn. He contracted a serious viral upper respiratory infection that landed him in the hospital. While being treated for the virus, Randy ended up suffering a devastating stroke on July 7, 2013 at the age of 54.

Doctors discovered that the stroke had affected the entire right side of Randy's brain, impacting everything from his ability to walk to his memories and speech. At one point while hospitalized, Randy's heart stopped beating entirely, and medical staff had to perform CPR for several minutes before restarting his heart.

The extensive brain damage from the stroke left Randy in a coma for months. When he finally emerged from the coma, he had to undergo intensive physical therapy to regain basic functions like walking. Therapy also aimed to help him relearn how to sing and speak.

Long Road to Recovery

In 2014, Randy made his first public appearance since the stroke at the CMA Awards, where he received a standing ovation. But his road to recovery was far from over. Though his speech improved, the stroke had permanently altered Randy's rich singing voice.

Randy had to relearn how to sing by developing muscle memory and using intelligence gained from his decades of performing. His first album after the stroke, Influence Vol. 1: The Man I Am, came out in 2016 and featured Randy re-recording some of his hits as well as new material.

In the following years, Randy continued to make public appearances and perform live shows, but only a few songs at a time. He worked tirelessly to regain his strength and abilities in the studio and on stage.

Randy Travis' Death

After a near decade of recovery from his debilitating stroke, Randy Travis passed away on July 29, 2022 at the age of 61 in Rogersville, Tennessee.

Cause of Death

Randy's family stated that he died from natural causes due to his long history of medical issues. The official cause of death was not disclosed at the time.

However, Randy clearly suffered from serious heart problems throughout adulthood, including cardiomyopathy, heart failure and cardiac arrest. His history of diabetes and stroke complications no doubt also contributed to his decline in health.

While Randy had made great strides in his recovery, the damage from his stroke left him weakened and vulnerable. His wife Mary speculated that perhaps his heart simply gave out after years of working harder to compensate for his illnesses.

Response from the Country Music Community

The country music world mourned the profound loss of a legend. Blake Shelton tweeted that “Randy Travis is one of the most influential artists in the history of country music. He was also one of the kindest men I knew."

Carrie Underwood praised Randy's "other worldly talent" and thanked him for the joy his music brought her. Fellow country star Maren Morris said "what a gentle giant we just lost."

Randy's producer Tony Brown called his death "a great loss for music." Travis' impact on country music was undoubtedly monumental, paving the way for many of today's stars.

Randy Travis' Lasting Legacy

Though his life and career were marred by health problems, Randy Travis leaves behind an enormous legacy as one of country music's greatest vocalists and storytellers.

Randy released 20 studio albums over three decades, amassing 18 #1 hits, dozens of awards, and over 25 million in album sales. He pioneered the neotraditional country sound and influenced generations of performers.

Beyond the numbers, Randy Travis touched countless lives with his iconic voice and ability to connect with fans through song. His path to stardom reflected the American dream, rising up from hardship through natural talent. After his stroke, Randy inspired others by the dedication he showed towards recovering and reclaiming his musical gifts.

Though his earthly voice has been silenced, Randy Travis' songs and impact on country music will live on eternally. He remains one of the brightest stars among the legends of country music history.

Randy's long battle with heart disease and diabetes, coupled with a devastating stroke that permanently damaged his health, ultimately led to his death at just 61 years old. But the gift of his music and the inspiration of his life story will continue touching the lives of country fans for generations to come.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.