Our condolences go out to Clint Black and his family, as they mourn the loss of the country icon's father, G.A. Black. The 78-year-old Texas native died Sunday (Dec. 2) in an apparent suicide.

"Our family is devastated by this news," says Clint. "We are still in the beginning stages of preparations to honor our father, and at this time, we respectfully ask for privacy until we have had the opportunity to fully process what's transpired over the last 48 hours."

A press release sent about Mr. Black's death indicates that the family believes he took his own life to end the physical pain of his declining health, along with the emotional pain of losing his wife, Mary Lou, last year.

G.A. Black is survived by four sons -- Mark, Brian, Kevin and Clint, along with extended family.