– Charlie Louvin, once one-half of the Louvin Brothers with a longstanding solo career on his own, passed away early today after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Louvin was 83 and died at his home in Wartrace, Tenn. surrounded by family.

Charles Elzer Loudermilk was born in Henagar, Ala. on July 7, 1927. Louvin started singing professionally with his brother Ira as a teenager on local radio programs in Chattanooga, Tenn., performing traditional and gospel music.

Louvin left in 1945 to serve in World War II. But the brothers performed again, moving first to Knoxville and later to Memphis, working as postal clerks by day while playing at night.

While steeped in gospel, the Louvins eventually played secular music as well. They appeared on the Grand Ole Opry during the 1950s becoming official members in 1955. More than 20 of their songs reached the country charts.

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Louvin said, "I love harmonies with a passion," he said. "It's what I did with my brother for 23 years. I think a song that has singing should have harmony."

By the 1960s, Charlie and Ira's popularity was on the downslide. They split up in 1963. Two years later, Ira was killed in a car accident. Charlie continued playing solo until last year. He also continued releasing albums throughout his career. Louvin released a disc of classics containing one new song, a tribute to Ira, and a gospel album on Tompkins Square Records. IN 2008, he released two albums, including ""Charlie Louvin Sings Murder Ballads and Disaster Songs." Last year, Louvin put out "The Battle Rages On."

In 2001, the Louvin Brothers were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Louvin underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer July 22, 2010 and had declined in recent weeks.

Louvin is survived by his wife Betty, and three sons, Charlie Jr. (Sonny), Glenn and Kenneth. A private funeral for Louvin will be held in Nashville, on Sunday, Jan. 30.