Legendary reggae singer-songwriter Ernie Smith, born Glenroy Anthony Michael Archangelo Smith, died on Thursday (April 16) at the age of 80 just a fortnight before his 81st birthday which was due to fall on May 1. The star suffered two cardiac incidents at the University of Miami hospital where he sadly died. His wife, Claudette Bailey-Smith, confirmed the news as she paid heartbreaking tribute.

Sharing an image of the pair together on Facebook she wrote: "With a heart shattered by loss, yet overflowing with love and gratitude, I want to thank each and every person who prayed for my beloved husband, Ernie Smith. Your prayers, messages, kindness, and support from Jamaica and across the world have carried me and our family through the darkest hours of our lives.
Ernie was not only my husband, he was the love of my life, my best friend, my safe place, my laughter, and my greatest blessing. He was the man who filled every room with light, joy, wisdom, and warmth. To the world, he was a legend whose music touched generations. To me, he was everything...Thank you for loving Ernie. Thank you for honoring him. Thank you for standing with us. Sleep peacefully, my love. Until we meet again."

The Life Is Just For Living singer had been admitted to the hospital on April 7 and spent his final days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after undergoing dialysis. Claudette praised the team for their "excellent care" of her husband.

He underwent surgery on April 9, two days after being admitted, and although it was successful, he had remained "heavily sedated" and on a ventilator. He also had a procedure to clean mucus from his lungs.

Amongst his many career accomplishments he was awarded the Badge of Honour for Meritorious Service in the Field of Music by the Jamaican government in 1973.

Tributes flooded in for the star as news of his death became public. Writing on Facebook one fan said: "Rest in power, Ernie Smith. You reminded us that 'life is just for living', and now that your race is run, your legacy lives on."

Another recalled: "RIP Legend Ernie Smith. I will always cherish the moments when I watched you entertain people at World Cup 98' at the Jamaica Village in Paris, France. You were such an Ambassador anywhere you went representing Jamaica and its culture. Walk good Bredrin. You will be greatly missed."

A third chimed in: "Tonight I extend my sincere condolences to the family, friends, and many fans worldwide of the legendary Ernie Smith....this musical giant who gave us many hits including 'Ride on Sammy', 'One Dream', 'Life Is Just For Living' . 'Pitta Patta'. 'Duppy or Gunman' 'I for Jesus' and many more....His voice, spirit, and legacy will live on forever....Rest peacefully, Legend. You were deeply loved, and you will never be forgotten."

A fourth lamented: "Involuntary tears escaped my eyes as I absorbed the sad news of the passing of veteran and beloved Jamaican Musician Ernie Smith...I am so grateful for the memories and for his music! For me, he lives on. So take your well earned rest Ernie Smith, we will remember you, always."

Meanwhile a fifth commented: "Tonight, my heart feels especially heavy, hearing of the passing of Ernie Smith. His voice was more than music - it was warmth, storytelling, and a true reflection of Jamaican soul...Rest well, sir. Your melody will linger, your words will remain, and your legacy will continue to echo through generations...Forever remembered. Forever appreciated."