Former Oakland Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler passed away on Wednesday in Gulfport, Mississippi. He was 69.

Stabler’s family said that the legendary quarterback died of complications from Stage 4 colon cancer, which he was diagnosed with last February.

“He passed peacefully surrounded by the people he loved most, including his three daughters and longtime partner, as some of his favorite songs played in the background, such as Lynard Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” and Van Morrison’s “Leaves Falling Down,” a statement from his family read.

Nicknamed “The Snake,” Stabler played his college ball at the University of Alabama and was selected by the Raiders in the second round of the 1968 NFL Draft. In his 10 seasons with the team he complied a victory in Super Bowl XI over the Minnesota Vikings, one league MVP award and four trips to the Pro Bowl, ESPN noted.

"The Raiders are deeply saddened by the passing of the great Ken Stabler,” Raiders owner Mark Davis said upon hearing the news of his death. “He was a cherished member of the Raider family and personified what it means to be a Raider. He wore the silver and black with pride and poise and will continue to live in the hearts of Raider fans everywhere. Our sincerest thoughts and prayers go out to Kenny's family."

Stabler is survived by his children and grandchildren.

Twitter image courtesy of the Oakland Raiders

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