Local memories shared as Haggard passes

Country music legend Merle Haggard performs two years ago in Carollton, Georgia. Haggard passed away Wednesday, on his 79th birthday due to health complications and pneumonia. (Cliff Williams / The Outlook)

Country music legend Merle Haggard died Wednesday, the same day he turned 79 years old.

A release issued by his family said Haggard had been in hospice care after recent health struggles that included pneumonia, which was listed as the cause of death.