Travis Tritt Mourns Death Of “Dear Friend” Gary Rossington From Lynyrd Skynyrd

The music world is mourning the death of Gary Rossington, the guitarist and co-founder of the legendary Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Rossington survived the 1977 plane crash that claimed the lives of three of his bandmates: backing vocalist Cassie Gaines, guitarist Steve Gaines, and lead singer Ronnie Van Zant. He rejoined Skynyrd after the group reformed in 1987, with Ronnie’s younger brother Johnny Van Zant at the helm. Rossington was the only surviving member of the original band who was still playing with Skynyrd today. Though he had to step away from the stage a lot in more recent years due to health problems.

On Sunday (March 5), Skynyrd took to their official Facebook page to share some sad news. Rossington had passed away. He was 71 years old:

“It is with our deepest sympathy and sadness that we have to advise, that we lost our brother, friend, family member, songwriter and guitarist, Gary Rossington, today,” the band said. “Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty, like he always does.”

Skynyrd asked their fans to please pray for Rossington’s family during this difficult time.

Because of their crossover appeal, the members of Skynyrd formed strong bonds with many country artists. One of their longtime friends is Travis Tritt.

Tritt performed with Rossington several times over the years. One of their best collaborations was when they joined forces to perform Skynyrd’s “Call Me the Breeze” live.

So when Tritt learned that Rossington died, he was devastated.

Tritt shared a touching tribute to his “dear friend” on social media. Alongside many photos of him with Rossington, Tritt wrote:

“I just learned that my dear friend, Gary Rossington passed away today. I’m heartbroken! Gary was not only a friend, but also a collaborator that wrote songs with me and played guitar with me in studio recordings and onstage so many times.”

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Tritt said his “heart and [his] deepest condolences go out to” Rossington’s family and the other members of Skynyrd. You can see his tribute to Rossington below. Be sure to flip through the slideshow to see all of the photos he shared.

We too, are heartbroken over Rossington’s death. Our prayers go out to his family, friends, and bandmates as they mourn their loss. May Rossington rest in peace in rock and roll heaven…