The Inspiring Legacy of Tony Bennett: His Wife and Son Extend Their Deep Gratitude to Fans

Tony Bennett. Loona/Abaca/Shutterstock

Tony Bennett's passing on July 21 was met with a beautiful expression of love and joy from his loved ones.

In an Instagram statement, Tony's wife Susan Benedetto (formerly known as Susan Crow) and eldest son Danny expressed their gratitude towards fans, friends, and colleagues who honored his life, humanity, and musical legacy. They also acknowledged the outpouring of love and tributes that were being shared.

From his humble beginnings as a singing waiter in Queens to his final performances at Radio City Music Hall in 2021, Tony Bennett found pure delight in sharing the songs he cherished and bringing happiness to others.

The pair posted a picture of the late artist (born Anthony Dominick Benedetto) during his performance at Radio City Music Hall on his 95th birthday in August 2021. "Despite the sadness we all feel today, we can always find joy in Tony's everlasting legacy," the statement ended.

The touching note was released shortly after it was announced that Bennett had passed away. He was 96.

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Bennett's publicist, confirming the information to the Associated Press, announced his demise in New York. No specific details regarding the cause of his death were provided; however, it is known that Bennett had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2016.

"Tony bid farewell today, though just the other day, he was serenading us at his piano, concluding with his chart-topping debut single 'Because of You,'" shared Bennett's team through social media on Friday. "Tony, your songs have found a permanent place in our hearts, all thanks to you."

Renowned for his musical prowess, the iconic jazz vocalist amassed an impressive collection of over 18 Grammy Awards during his remarkable seven-decade-long journey. He would have celebrated his 97th birthday on August 3rd.

Aside from his wife, whom he married in 2007, Bennett is survived by his four children from previous relationships.

Bennett got married for the first time in 1952, marrying an art student named Patricia Beech. During that same year, he also released his first album, titled Because of You. The former couple had two sons, Danny and Dae, born in 1952 and 1955 respectively. Bennett and Beech separated in the 1960s and officially divorced in 1971.

The singer of "Way You Look Tonight" later married Sandra Grant in 1971. They had two daughters, Joanna and Antonia, born in 1970 and 1974. Although Bennett and Grant separated in 1979, their divorce was not finalized until 2007.

Afterwards, Bennett married Benedetto and they remained married for over 15 years until his passing.

Following the passing of Bennett on Friday, numerous individuals, including members of the Bennett family, expressed their condolences. Singers and other celebrities also expressed their love and admiration for the musician. Carrie Underwood, for example, shared a slideshow of pictures capturing her moments with Bennett over the years, accompanying it with a caption that read, "Tony, may you rest in peace. Your unparalleled voice and gentlemanly nature were truly exceptional gifts from God. It was a tremendous privilege of my career and personal life to have the opportunity to perform alongside you..."

Reba McEntire expressed her admiration for the late singer on social media, stating, "I was fortunate enough to have encountered @itstonybennett on two occasions during my career, both times during Christmas. He was a true gentleman and a musical legend, and his timeless voice will continue to resonate for years to come. May Tony rest in peace."