Keith Urban’s father, Robert Urban, has sadly passed away—GhanaCelebrities.Com reported on Friday that he needs prayers after he was laid in hospice care.

The New Zealand-born Australian country music singer who confirmed the news in a statement to his fans said Mr. Robert Urban died on Saturday after he battled with cancer for some years now.

“I’ve been deeply touched by the outpouring of love and support that [wife Nicole Kidman] and I, and our family, have received since my Dad’s passing on Saturday night,” Urban shared. “His long battle with cancer is now over and he is finally at peace. My Dad’s love of country music and America set me on my life’s journey, and shaped so much of who I am today. Thank you to everyone who has kept us all in your thoughts and prayers.”

The 48-year-old country singer recently revealed in an interview with The Tennessean that he owes his dad a ‘big thanks’ for inspiring him. According to him, Mr. Robert Urban used to design his stage getups in the early part of his career.

“My dad particularly always thought it was important that I dressed like a performer,” he explained. “A lot of these country music talent quests I did in Australia, they often had categories for best dressed male or best dressed female and I often won. Sometimes it was the only thing I won.”

May His Soul Rest In Perfect Peace!