Jimmie Van Zant, the cousin to Ronnie and Johnny Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd and Donnie Van Zant of 38 Special, has passed away today at the age of 59. Van Zant had been battling liver cancer for some time, and was in hospice care when he died. Despite numerous benefit concerts and fundraisers, Van Zant was unable to get a liver transplant, and ultimately succumbed to the tragic disease.
His Facebook page posted an official statement in mourning of Jimmie Van Zant:
It is with a very heavy heart that we inform you that Jimmie Van Zant has passed away today holding his wife’s hand. His very close friends, Steve & Sue Prindel were alongside Jimmie & Zohra, as Jimmie transitioned. We ask that you keep Jimmie, Zohra and all of his loved ones in your thoughts & prayers. We also ask that you respect their need for privacy in this very sad and difficult time. Thank you. God bless you and let the Freebird Fly !!!
Jimmie Van Zant was a respected musician in his own right, having released three albums in his career: Jimmie Van Zant Band (1996), Southern Comfort (2000) and Feels Like Freedom (2012). He was also recently profiled by Billboard, where he discussed the pros and cons of being part of the famed Van Zant family.
“First of all, it’s my family, so I am very glad to be a part of it… I’ve been asked many times whether doors open or close because of it. In my day-to-day, the Van Zant carries weight no different than DuPont paint or Chevrolet or Ford. There’s a brand name, but there is to be expected quality, and we try to deliver that. It gets tough sometimes.”
Lynyrd Skynyrd posted a message in his honor as well last night, saying:
Jimmie Van Zant, Ronnie and Johnny’s cousin, passed away this morning. His family appreciates your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We know you’re lookin’ down on us from rock ‘n’ roll heaven, Jimmie…
RIP Jimmie Van Zant. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all loved ones during what is a difficult time.