Ronnie James Dio, the frontman of heavy metal bands Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Dio and Heaven and Hell, has passed away from his battle with stomach cancer. He was 67.
Rumors of Dio's death began circulating online Saturday. His wife, Wendy Dio, took to Twitter Saturday night to tell fans, "He is not doing well, but he is not dead." But Sunday morning at 7:45AM, she confirmed that he had passed away.
A message on Dio's official website reads, "Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45am 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away. Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you have all 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."