Last month the Great White vocalist Jack Russell announced his retirement from touring because he was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, but sadly last August 15 his family announced that he passed away at the age of 63. The official statement said: “With tremendous sadness, we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell – father, husband, cousin, uncle and friend.”
“Jack passed peacefully in the presence of his wife Heather Ann Russel, 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”.
“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 said.
Russell had many friends and many Rock stars reacted paying tribute to the late singer.
Rock stars react to the death of Great White’s Jack Russell
Scorpions
“Sad News … Jack Russell Lead Singer of US Band Great White has passed at the age of 63 … our hearts go out to his family and friends … RIP Jack,” they said on Instagram.
Bret Michaels
“To my friend Jack Russell, such an amazing voice. May you rest in peace,” Bret Michaels said on X.
Dee Snider
“RIP Jack Russel. This man was vilified for a situation out of his control and tortured by the memories. He was not evil. And man could he sing!” said on X.
Brad Gillis
“Definitely a sad time…. Greg Kihn was Bay Area legend who I had known forever. Jack Russell and his band, Great White, opened many dates with us on the Big Life Tour.
“Both were so talented. A big loss to our rock community. My condolences to their family, friends, & fans,” Brad Gillis said.
Tom Keifer
“So saddened to hear of my friend Jack’s passing. He was an amazing, soulful singer and truly great person. Condolences and prayers to his family,” Tom Keifer said.
Stephen Pearcy
“Brother Jack Russell R.I.P., wow, Gazzarris on the Strip 1980-81. We always had a great time when Dante Fox and Mickey Ratt played a gig together back then. love ya brother Jack #livelifelove,” Stephen Pearcy said.
Firehouse
“Today we morn the loss of our good friend, Jack Russell. Jack was a true friend of FireHouse and will always be remembered as the amazing, one of a kind vocalists of our generation. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Heather, his friends and family, bandmates, all of the musicians and crew guys who had the chance to work with him, and the millions of fans who loved him dearly. RIP Captain Jack,” Firehouse said.
Michael Sweet
“I’m so deeply sorry to hear of the passing of Jack Russell. Jack Russell’s Great White. It’s tragic to see that he’s gone but the music will live on. I pray that he’s found peace. May God bless Jack, his family & friends and all the fans worldwide,” he said.
Jack Blades
“Jack Russell. A unique and amazing singer. I had the privilege of producing Great White’s “Cant Get There From Here” album. Jack lived at my ranch for a couple of months during those sessions. A true rock spirit. Free of pain now and soaring in the Heavens… Shine on brother Jack,” he said.
Tracii Guns
“Me and Jack. Gimme a minute. I wasn’t preparing for this trauma,” he said.