“Heart problems” had happened to the comedian, who called himself “the funniest man in America.”

His family said that he “brought laughter and joy to countless lives” before they confirmed his death on May 9.

“Today, with heavy hearts, we make the sad announcement that the Funniest Man in America, comedian James Gregory, has died,” they said.

“He made many people laugh and smile, and he left an indelible mark on the comedy world and on the people who loved him.”

“James’ three nieces who referred to him as ‘Uncle Bubba,’ Martha Anne, Mary Jane, and Candie, along with their families, were instrumental in caring for him through his last days and weeks.”