His wife of 45 years, Janie, explained the situation further in a hospital statement. "Ray is alert and aware of his surroundings and making decisions," she said. "With God's blessing he has not had extreme pain. But it's with great sadness that I announce to you today that my beloved husband has entered the final stages of his cancer that he has battled for 25 months."

She added: "Anyone who knows Ray is aware that he has strong convictions and great faith in God. It's his decision to leave the hospital and return home to spend his final days on his beloved ranch surrounded by the comfort of his home, family and friends."

Price will remain near his ranch home in Texas. His wife also relayed his final message to fans and urged them to keep in touch on his Facebook page or by sending letters to Ray Price, P.O. Box 1986, Mt. Pleasant, TX 75456.