“I love my family more than anything.”

News of his death was announced in a statement from the Golden family, shared on social media.

We thank you all for your love and support of Rusty over the years.

Rusty Golden, William Lee Golden, and Chris Golden attend the “Smokey Mountain Spring” special presentation & VIP reception at the Tennessee State Museum

Rusty Golden, William Lee Golden.Beth Gwinn/Getty

We kindly ask for privacy for the Golden family during this difficult time.

I love my family more than anything.

Rusty was a great musician, a talented songwriter, and a wonderful son.

Rusty Golden, William Lee Golden, and Chris Golden attend the “Smokey Mountain Spring” special presentation & VIP reception at the Tennessee State Museum

Rusty Golden.Beth Gwinn/Getty

We appreciate your thoughts and prayers for the days ahead.

I love you, son.

By age 13, Rusty was playing drums for the band The Rambos, featuring songwriter Dottie Rambo.