Kenny Rogers’ Final Days: Ex-Wife Marianne Gordon Shares Heartfelt Memories

Let me tell you a story about a true legend. Country music icon Kenny Rogers, the man behind unforgettable hits like "Coward of the County" and "Lucille," had a life that was as rich as his music. But in his final days, according to his ex-wife Marianne Gordon, he faced some struggles that many of us might find hard to imagine. In an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly, Marianne revealed that Kenny felt as though his life had come to an end before he passed away. "Our son, Chris, said he thought Kenny associated retirement with death," she shared. "He was always so upbeat and positive, but then he fell into a deep depression." It’s a poignant reminder that even the brightest stars can face dark moments.

A Different Side of Kenny Rogers

Marianne went on to explain how noticeable the change was in Kenny. For someone who was always so positive and full of life, even a small shift in his demeanor stood out. "You could tell when he was down, even just a little bit," she said. "But the thing is, he never lost his sense of humor. That's what made Kenny, Kenny." It’s fascinating to hear about the personal side of a man who touched so many lives with his music. His humor and charisma were always there, even in the toughest times.

When the news of Kenny's passing broke on March 21, it sent shockwaves through the music world. The Rogers family announced his peaceful transition at the age of 81, surrounded by loved ones. "The Rogers family is sad to announce that Kenny Rogers passed away last night at 10:25 p.m.," the statement read. "Rogers passed away peacefully at home from natural causes under the care of hospice and surrounded by his family." It’s a beautiful way to remember a man who meant so much to so many people.

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A Life Lived to the Fullest

During their 16-year marriage, Marianne remembers Kenny as someone who didn’t always prioritize his health. "He never exercised," she recalled. "When I met him, he only played golf, but we started playing tennis together. He was great at it, but eventually, he stopped exercising altogether. The doctors told him he needed to do more, but it didn’t stick." It’s a reminder that even those who seem invincible can sometimes neglect their well-being.

Marianne also spoke about how Kenny’s health took a turn after a heart valve surgery a few years before his passing. "He got an infection after the surgery, and that’s when things started going downhill," she explained. "I don’t think his body was strong enough to handle it. It was a tough time for everyone involved."

Family Remembers Kenny Rogers

When Kenny’s health began to decline rapidly, Marianne learned of his passing through her son, Chris, who called her with the heartbreaking news. "I knew he wasn’t in great health," she admitted. "Wanda, Kenny’s wife, called Chris to let him know the end was near. They thought he had a few more weeks, but unfortunately, it happened sooner than expected." Despite not being there physically, Marianne believes that Wanda and Kenny’s twin boys were by his side in his final moments.

"I think they probably needed nurses with him, but they decided it was better to have him stay at home," she added. "It’s a difficult decision to make, but I believe it was the right one for him and his family."