Former Great White lead singer Jack Russell passed away on Thursday at 63 years old.
“With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell — father, husband, cousin, uncle, and friend,” Russell’s family announced his death in a social media post. “Jack passed peacefully in the presence of his wife Heather Ann Russell, son Matthew Hucko, cousin Naomi Breshears Barbor, and dear friends Billy and Cheryl Pawelcik.”
The statement continued, “Details of a public memorial will be announced at a later date. Jack is loved and remembered for his sense of humor, exceptional zest for life, and unshakeable contribution to rock and roll where his legacy will forever thrive. His family asks for privacy at this time.”
“Our deepest condolences to the family of Jack Russell,” Great White also posted in a separate statement. “We hope they take comfort in knowing Jack’s incredible voice will live on forever. His love for the fans and his sons went unmatched, as was his own love for rock music. What do you say about someone that was there by your side on such an amazing journey, the good and the bad?”
The band added, “We prefer to let the music fill in the blanks. All those wonderful years together will be held close to our hearts. It was a privilege and joy to share the stage with him – many shows, many miles, and maximum rock. In the studio, Jack was amazing. He always came ready to work. And work hard, he did. Jack stayed until he got the best performance for each song.”
“He brought the same excellence to every show. The consistency of his live performances were always beyond comparison. Rest in peace to one of rock’s biggest champions,” the group finished their statement.
Jack’s death came just weeks after he said he was retiring from touring because he was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I must announce my retirement from the road,” the singer said.
He added, “After a recent diagnosis of Lewy body dementia and multiple system atrophy in May 2024, I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve. Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams.”
Great White started in 1977. They became famous in the 1980s with songs like ‘Rock Me’ and ‘Once Bitten, Twice Shy.’ Russell left in 1996 but came back in 2001 and continued performing under the name Jack Russell’s Great White. In 2003, a fire at one of their shows killed 100 people. It was the deadliest fireworks accident in U.S. history.