Andy Williams' had close relationship with the Kennedy family

Andy Williams performs a song on a television show May 12, 1961.

/ AP Photo

(CBS/AP) Andy Williams, the "easy listening" singer who died Tuesday after a year-long battle with bladder cancer, was not only a popular musician, but also a friend to the Kennedy family.

The "Moon River" singer was a close friend of Robert and Ethel Kennedy and even sang at Robert's funeral.

Pictures: Andy Williams 1927-2012
Pictures: Robert F. Kennedy

When Kennedy was assassinated in Los Angeles in June 1968 after winning the California Democratic primary, Williams sang "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" at his funeral.

25 Photos

Andy Williams: 1927 - 2012

"We chose that song because he used it on the campaign trail," Williams later said of Kennedy. "He had a terrible voice, but he loved to sing that song. The only way I got through singing in church that day was by saying, `This is my job. I can't let emotion get in the way of the song.' I really concentrated on not thinking about him."

In the '70s, Williams was seen frequently in the company of Ethel Kennedy, Robert Kennedy's widow. The singer denied any romantic involvement.

[drkdxn]

I remember Andy Williams so well and with the wonderful Christmas shows he always gave. The Osmonds have him to thank for their success but the one thing about Andy Williams that stands out and have so respected him for was when he came to his ex-wife's support when she was under suspicion in the killing of her boyfriend, Spider Savatch. That took real courage to stand beside someone who cast you aside for someone else. Sleep well Andy, you'll always have a place in my heart.