The music world is praying following the shocking news of the death of Great White frontman Jack Russell.
He was 63.
Russell’s family announced his death on his X account on Thursday. “It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell – father, husband, cousin, uncle and friend,” said a post on the singer’s X page, formerly Twitter, on Thursday. “Jack passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife Heather Ann Russell, son Matthew Hucko, cousin Naomi Breshears Barbor and dear friends Billy and Cherly Pawelcik.”
Fans, supporters and friends quickly responded with prayers and condolences.
“Great White and Jack were part of the lives of thousands and thousands of people through their music that will live on for decades to come!” one person wrote. “His voice and personality will be remembered forever!!! I love you Jack!!”
“Very sad news,” wrote another person. “Such a great singer and the only one who could really deliver when playing the music he made with his GW bandmates and their constant barrage of imitators proves it. Respect and condolences to his family and friends and his excellent current band.”
“We lost a legend today,” wrote another person. “My condolences to his family and friends.”
There were many more comments like this and you can see them all here.
White announced his retirement on his Facebook page on July 17 and discussed his health issues.
“To my fans and friends, it is with a heavy heart that I must announce my retirement from touring,” he wrote. “After a recent diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) and Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) in May 2024, I will no longer be able to perform at the level I desire and you deserve. Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a miracle. Love, Jack Russell.”
The Mayo Clinic describes MSA as “a rare, degenerative neurological disorder” that “impairs the body’s (autonomic) functions, including blood pressure and motor control.” It also describes Lewy body dementia as “the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease.”
Loudwire reported that Russell performed with Great White from 1981 to 1996. He left the band in 1996 to pursue a solo career. The website states that he has returned several times to perform with Great White and also has his own band, Jack Russell’s Great White.
In the statement shared on his X account, the family said a public memorial service would be announced at a later date. The Mayo Clinic describes MSA as “a rare, degenerative neurological disease” that affects the “(autonomic) functions of the body, including blood pressure and motor control.” It also describes Lewy body dementia as “the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease.”
“Jack will be loved and remembered for his sense of humor, his extraordinary joy for life and his unwavering contribution to rock ‘n’ roll, where his legacy will live on forever.”
