Posted from his website:

Message from Wendy Dio
Today my heart is broken, Ronnie passed away at 7:45am 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.

- Wendy Dio

 

Another legend gone.

In the last year 3 of my all time fav lead guys. Glad i got to see them all.

Lux interior - The Cramps

Peter Steele - Type O Negative

And now - Dio

 

R.I.P. Ronnie

 

Rest in Peace Ronnie.. What a good man and unique metal voice you had.

 

I remember seeing Ronnie fronting a band called Elf that opened for Deep Purple. I remember saying "now that guy can sing! Someone should snatch him up". Little did I know then that Ritchie Blackmore himself would get him! Heaven And Hell is still one of Sabbath's best albums ever. RIP Ronnie, your music lives on.

 

He was planning a tour, just like a few other legends did. It just wasn't meant to be.