Irby Mandrell Dies

Irby Mandrell, father and longtime manager of Barbara Mandrell, died after being hospitalized for emphysema and respiratory distress at Baptist Hospital in Nashville March 5.

Mandrell, 84, managed Barbara’s career for 30 years and started the Mandrell Family Band, which launched Barbara’s career as well as those of sisters Louise and Irlene.

The Arkansas native most recently attended a February press conference announcing Barbara as one of the newest members of the Country Music Hall of Fame.