Jimmy Buffett died over the weekend, and the cause of death has now been announced, likely confirming the tragic reports.

The legendary performer had been “battling Merkel Cell Skin Cancer for four years,” according to an official obituary released on his website.According to the National Cancer Institute, Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare disease in which malignant (cancerous) cells grow in the skin.

According to the website, “sun exposure and having a weak immune system can affect the risk of Merkel cell carcinoma.”

The obituary made a point of mentioning that Buffett “continued to perform during treatment, playing his last show, a surprise appearance in Rhode Island, in early July.”

On September 1, the legendary ‘Margaritaville’ figure died at his home in Sag Harbor, Long Island. He was 76 years old at the time.

He died peacefully surrounded by his family, friends, music, and beloved pets, according to a statement posted on his website and social media sites.

“He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many,” the statement reads.

He is survived by his 46-year-old wife, Jane Slagsvol, and their three daughters, Savannah, Sarah, and Cameron.

Elton John paid homage to Buffett on his social media, saying, “Jimmy Buffett was a one-of-a-kind and cherished entertainer. His fans adored him, and he never disappointed them. This is the saddest of news. A wonderful man gone much too soon.”

“Condolences to Jane and the family from David and me,” he added, mentioning Buffett’s family.

On his X account, Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys posted a simple message that reads, “Love and Mercy.”

Mike Love, a fellow Beach Boys member, paid poignant homage to the legend, recalling performing with him onstage several years ago.

“Your music brought joy to so many people, including me. It was always a pleasure when our paths crossed, and we were able to share the stage together. I will cherish our time spent together on stage, especially you singing ‘Kokomo’ with us,” Love wrote.

Blake Shelton recalled a backstage remembrance of working with the late superstar on his show “Barmageddon.”

“Heartbroken this morning hearing of Jimmy Buffett’s passing. What an incredible talent and man. His songs will live on forever. I’ll bet most of y’all don’t know that he wrote the theme song for @BarmageddonUSA for me about 2 years ago. Raising a glass today to the Son of a son of a Sailer.”

Miles Teller, star of ‘Top Gun: Maverick,’ shared a quote from Buffett along with a photo of himself and “the legend.”

“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination,” he wrote.

Buffett released several pop culture classics in the 1970s and 1980s, including the 1977 hit ‘Margaritaville,’ ‘Come Monday,’ ‘Cheeseburger in Paradise,’ ‘Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes,’ ‘A Pirate Looks at Forty,’ and ‘Pencil Thin Mustache.’

Sending our thoughts and prayers to Jimmy Buffett’s family, friends, and fans at this difficult time.