His legendary songwriting career earned him two Grammy Awards and a place in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. “I will never be able to believe that I deserve this, unless I receive it as a representative of my family,

The Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame member won two Grammy Awards throughout his career, including Best Country Song for "The Gambler"

Don Schlitz, the mastermind behind "The Gambler," has died at 73. Schlitz died Thursday at a Nashville hospital after a sudden illness ... and the loss is hitting the industry hard. A member of the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame,

The songwriter behind one of the most iconic country songs ever written has died. Don Schlitz, whose 1978 classic “The Gambler” is widely ranked among the greatest country songs of all time, passed away April 16 at a Nashville hospital after a sudden illness.

Don Schlitz, the songwriter responsible for several country staples, such as “The Gambler,” has died at the age of 73.

Don Schlitz, one of country music's most celebrated songwriters, has died in Nashville at age 73. His chart-topping hits changed the careers of Kenny Rogers and Randy Travis.

Don Schlitz, one of country music's most celebrated songwriters, has died at age 73. His chart-topping hits changed the careers of Kenny Rogers and Randy Travis.

Country Music Hall of Fame member also co-wrote hits like Randy Travis' "Forever and Ever, Amen" and Keith Whitley's "When You Say Nothing at All"