Ronnie James Dio (photo by Marty Temme/WireImage)

Former Black Sabbath vocalist Ronnie James Dio died on May 16, five months after he was diagnosed with stomach cancer. He was 67.

Dio was Ozzy Osbourne's replacement in Black Sabbath when the former left in 1979.

It was his wife and manager Wendy Dio who announced on Dio’s website that the diminutive singer with a wicked howl had succumbed to cancer. She also noted that “many, many friends and family were able to say their private goodbyes before he peacefully passed away.”

Wendy Dio thanked those who extended their sympathy and support upon learning of Ronnie James’ passing. “Ronnie knew how much he was loved by all. We so appreciate the love and support that you have all given us. Please give us a few days of privacy to deal with this terrible loss. Please know he loved you all and his music will live on forever."

Ronnie James, first made a mark with his powerful vocals when he fronted the Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple)-led band Rainbow from 1975-79. Dio was later recruited by guitarist Tony lommi for Black Sabbath in 1979. Dio had a couple of Sabbath albums under his belt, namely "Heaven And Hell" (1980), "Mob Rules" (1981), and the influential live-in-concert set "Live Evil" (1982).

Ronnie eventually left the band in 1982 and formed his own group and called it Dio. The singer recorded again with Sabbath in 1992 with "Dehumanizer" and formed a  group with former Sabbath band mates to record "Heaven and Hell” in 2006.

Besides having powerful vocals, Dio is also credited in popularizing the “devil horns” gesture, an iconic sign in heavy metal and hard rock circles.

Black Sabbath is among the most influential bands that defined the heavy metal genre, influencing latter day rock icons from Metallica to Soundgarden to Rage Against The Machine. The latter’s guitarist, Tom Morello, is a fan of the singer and were among the first who spread the news about Dio’s passing.

“Rip Ronnie James Dio. One of rock's greatest singers. Cranking Mob Rules in his memory. Thanks Ronnie for rocking me like crazy” Morello posted on his Twitter.