AceShowbiz -

Little Jimmy Dickens is in "critical care" after being admitted to a Nasville-area hospital on Thursday, December 25. Grand Ole Opry announced the news on Facebook on Sunday night, December 28.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Little Jimmy Dickens, who was admitted to a Nashville hospital on Christmas Day. We request prayers from his friends and fans around the world," Grand Ole Opry wrote along with a link to its website.

According to a statement posted on Grand Ole Opry's website, Jimmy "is currently in critical care with an undisclosed illness." The statement added, "Jimmy's wife, family, and the Opry are requesting prayers from his friends and fans around the world." Fans may send cards and wishes to the Grand Ole Opry House.

Jimmy, who turned 94 on December 19, last performed at the Opry on the next day as a part of his birthday celebration. The singer, who is famous for his humorous novelty songs and his diminutive frame, became a member of Grand Ole Opry in 1948. He was later elected to the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1983.

Jimmy's hit songs include "Take an Old Cold Tater (and Wait)", "Country Boy", "Out Behind the Barn" and "May the Bird of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose".

He is the oldest living member of Grand Ole Opry after Hank Locklin's passing in 2009.