'One of my heroes': George Strait honors Vicente Fernández after Mexican icon's death

LEFT: George Strait performs during the 2021 iHeartCountry Festival at Frank Irwin Center on October 30, 2021 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) RIGHT: Singer Vicente Fernandez performs October 21, 2000 at The Theatre at Madison

Many around the world are mourning legendary Mexican artist Vicente Fernández, who died on Sunday at the age of 81.

Among those honoring the "El Rey de la Música Ranchera" is the King of Country George Strait.

DETAILS: Vicente Fernández, beloved Mexican singer, dies at 81

Following the news of Fernández's death, Strait took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the passing of the iconic singer, calling him one of his "heroes."

"Sad news today," he wrote. "We lost The amazing legendary Vicente Fernández this morning. One of my heroes. May he Rest In Peace and may God bless and comfort his family. Hasta la Cruz Chente!! gs"

Fernández, who was fondly known as "Chente," had been hospitalized since August when he suffered a serious fall.

RELATED: Legendary Mexican singer Vicente Fernandez on ventilator in ICU after fall

On Saturday, a post to his Instagram said he was in critical condition and needed to be sedated. Hours later, Fernández died in a hospital in Guadalajara.

A wake is being held at his ranch Los 3 Potrillos outside of Guadalajara on Monday afternoon.