The death of Tony Bennett came as a shock to many.
In the days leading up to his passing, it was learned that the star's health had been declining.
As Tony's health rapidly deteriorated on Thursday, a special figure was with him when he eventually passed away - it was none other than his beloved wife, Susan Benedetto.
A source close to the iconic crooner revealed to The Sun that many family and friends in New York City surrounded the singer during this difficult time.
It was a difficult moment for all involved, as it became apparent on Thursday that things had become increasingly dire.
Susan, who is also his caregiver, stayed close by in these final days of his life.
On the brink of his 97th birthday, Tony Bennett previously revealed in 2021 that for five years, since 2016, Alzheimer's has been part of his life.
When disclosing this news on Twitter, the singer paid homage to Susan Crow with a heartfelt message: "Life is a gift - even with Alzheimer's."
He went on to say, "Thank you to Susan and my family for their support, and @AARP The Magazine for telling my story."
In a 2016 AARP The Magazine profile, Susan clearly outlined her official diagnosis Tony Bennett's Neurodegenerative Disease.
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This disorder is known for its progressive memory loss as well as potential dementia.
According to Susan, Tony was a rare individual who had been diagnosed with the disease yet managed to hold onto his abilities to speak, understand and recognize his family members.
His condition was even more remarkable as he could still remember the lyrics of songs and sang them out loud.
She went on to say, "Singing is everything to him. Everything. It has saved his life many times."
As recently as 2019, this star had no intention of slowing down his performances and tours.
Tony then went on to make a collaborative concert series with Lady Gaga in 2021 that had been especially beneficial for him, according to his neurologist Gayatri Devi.
Gayatri added, "It kept him on his toes and also stimulated his brain in a significant way."
Tony had reportedly expressed his frustration over the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that it had been a major setback from an intellectual standpoint because he was unable to take the stage and sing his songs.
His memory was allegedly nothing but stellar before the pandemic, leading her to suggest Bennett's family have him practice twice a week.
To accomplish this, Lee Musiker, who has been his pianist for many years, would come to their house and run through a 90-minute set with him. That way he could stay ready for performances.
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