Country Songwriter Jamie O’Hara Dies Days After Announcing Cancer Diagnosis

Jamie O’Hara made a name for himself in the country music industry as a go-to songwriter. He wrote so many memorable songs, including Gary Allan’s first #1 hit “Man to Man” and The Judds‘ Grammy-winning single “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout the Good Old Days).”

Jamie was also a member of the country duo the O’Kanes, which was active from 1986-1990. They became known for their #1 single “Can’t Stop My Heart from Loving You.”

Sadly, on January 4, Moraine Music Group shared a statement from Jamie’s wife, Lola White, in which she revealed he had “been diagnosed with an aggressive cancer.”

She said the cancer diagnosis was so severe, it had them “measuring his life in weeks.”

It turns out Jamie had even less time than weeks. Just a few days later, on Thursday (January 7), Lola shared a statement on Jamie’s Facebook page announcing he had passed away.

Jamie died at 11:11 AM at Alive Hospice. He was 70 years old.

“Dear friends & fans, it is with a broken heart that I must tell you that my husband, friend and love of my life took his last breath this morning…” Lola wrote in her statement.

Although Lola is heartbroken over her husband’s passing, she finds comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain:

“Jamie suffered tremendously in recent months,” she said. “He’s no longer suffering, and for that we can all be grateful. He will live in our hearts and in his songs. With love and gratitude to all our friends, on and offline, Lola.”

Read Lola’s full statement about Jamie’s passing below.

In memory of Jamie, tune in to the video below to watch him sing his song “Cold Hard Truth.” The song was also recorded by George Jones, and served as the title track of his 1999 album.

Jamie may be gone, but he’s left behind a legacy that ensures he will always be remembered.