Lauren Alaina’s father, J.J. Sudet, died on July 23.
The country singer announced on her Instagram post on July 24 that she’s canceling three scheduled shows to be with her family to mourn her father’s death. “We lost my daddy last night, and I really don’t have words yet,” she shared in the post.
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“I want to let y’all know that I’m not able to play the three shows I had scheduled for this weekend in Savannah, Virginia Beach, and Charlotte, as I am going home to be with my family,” she continued. “Thank you for your support and understanding.”
Alaina signed off as “Pinky,” a nickname his father used to call her.
The cause of Sudeth’s death is still unknown. Her representatives had no immediate response when reached by PEOPLE.
The “Road Less Traveled” singer was close to her father. In her Grand Ole Opry induction in February 2022, she shared the meaning behind the name “Pinky.”
“My dad and I have this really sweet thing that we do,” she said. “When I was little, I always held his pinky. So, when he comes to see me at my shows, he’ll stand out in the crowd and hold up his pinky, and that’s his way of telling me that he loves me.”
Last month, Alaina greeted his dad with a heartfelt Instagram post on Father’s Day.
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Suddeth suffered from alcoholism but has been recovering. Alaina was vocal about this and honored his five years of sobriety in a 2018 Instagram post.
Alaina’s stepfather, Sam Ramker, also died in 2018 due to stage 4 cancer.
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After announcing Suddeth’s death, she received immense support from the country community. Trisha Yearwood wrote on Alaina’s post, “I love you. So very sorry.”
The official Grand Ole Opry account commented, “We are so very sorry for your loss! Your Opry family is sending you lots of love and comfort to you and yours.”
“My heart breaks for you. Good for you for taking the time to process and grieve. Here for you,” said TJ Osborne. British singer-songwriter Lucie Silvas added, “So sorry, Lauren. We all love you. Sending love and support to you and your family.”
Lauren Alaina was set to perform with Jason Aldean on July 25 in Savannah, Georgia, and on July 26 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. There is no further comment on whether the performances will be rescheduled.
Our deepest condolences go to Laura Alaina and her family. Rest in Peace, J.J.
