His wife/manager, Wendy Dio, issued the following statement announcing his passing:
“Today my heart is broken; Ronnie passed away at 7:45 am, 16th May. Many, many friends and family were able to say their private good-byes before he peacefully passed away. Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever.”
We here at Dread Central would like to take this time to wish Dio’s family, friends, and constituents our deepest of sympathies. Thanks for the memories, oh dark one! You will be sorely missed.
Let’s rock out for the man, shall we?