Jack Russell, Great White Vocalist and Founder, Dies at 63

Rock star Jack Russell has died at the age of 63.

On Thursday, Aug. 15, a statement was released on the Instagram page of the vocalist and founding member of the hard rock band Great White.

“With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell — father, husband, cousin, uncle, and friend,” the statement read. “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.”

“Details of a public memorial will be announced at a later date,” the announcement continued.

“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,” the statement read.

The post then added, “His family ask for privacy at this time.”

Last month, Russell announced his retirement from touring due to being diagnosed with Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA).

“I am unable to perform at the level I desire and at the level you deserve,” his Instagram post read at the time. “Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love, and support.”

According to Variety, Russell was born in Montebello, California in 1960.

Meeting guitarist Mark Kendall in 1977, the duo formed bands such as Highway and Livewire.

The name of the band was then changed to Great White due to it being Kendall’s nickname.

The rock group went on to produce many hit songs such as 1989’s “The Angel Song” and “Once Bitten, Twice Shy.”

However, tragedy struck in 2003 when their show at the small Station nightclub in Rhode Island caught on fire due to pyrotechnics. According to Variety, 100 people died and 230 others were injured. Among the deceased included Great White guitarist Ty Longley.

Following the news of Russell’s death, Great White released a statement on their Instagram page.

“What do you say about someone who was there by your side on such an amazing journey, the good and the bad? We prefer to let the music fill in the blanks,” they wrote. “All those wonderful years together will be held close to our hearts.”