MUSIC NEWS - Lynyrd Skynyrd member, keyboardist Billy Powell (56) died this AM, January 28, 2009 at his home in Orange Park, FL, USA. According to press reports, Powell phoned 911 around 12:55 a.m. this morning, reporting breathing problems. Rescue crews arrived at the condo but Powell was pronounced dead just before 2 am. Orange Park Police Lt. Mark Cornett told the AP that Powell had missed an appointment yesterday for a cardiac evaluation. Powell and guitarist Gary Rossington were the only current members of Lynyrd Skynyrd that survived the infamous '77 plane crash that took the lives of three band members. Powell joined Lynyrd Skynyrd in 1972 following a stint as a member of the group's road crew. He was married, to Ellen Vera Powell and had four children. Ross Schilling, with Skynyrd's mgmt company, Nashville based Vector Management, said they believe Powell suffered a heart attack,and an autopsy will not be conducted as his cardiologist will sign the death certificate. The funeral will be private, with no word on a public memorial service. To make a donation in Billy's name, in lieu of flowers, contact The City Rescue Mission in Jacksonville, FL (904.387-4357).
Skynyrd was booked to perform this Friday, January 30 in Kinder, Louisiana, and on the 31st in Biloxi, MS. Their European tour was due to begin May 20 in Finland and new US record deal was in the works.
Wow. We will miss you Powell
Posted by: tommy | Jan 28, 2009 at 04:55 PM
Billy was instrumental with "Freebird's Last Flight" presentation that I take into the prison system. Billy, in the presentation, gave hope to many! Now we will remember the influence he had on so many. His testimony and belief in Christ Jesus was clear!
Thanks Billy for all of the support you gave to so many!!
Barry McGarrh
Director, Freebird Jail & Prison Outreach
Posted by: Barry McGarrh | Jan 31, 2009 at 01:21 PM