The rock music community is mourning the loss of Jack Russell, the former lead singer of the iconic band Great White, who passed away quietly today at the age of 62. Jack’s passing marks the end of an era for rock and roll, where his powerful voice and charismatic stage presence left an indelible mark.
Earlier today, a statement was posted on Jack’s official social media channels, confirming the heartbreaking news: “With great sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell — father, husband, cousin, uncle, and friend. Jack died quietly in front of his wife Heather Ann Russell, son Matthew Hucko, cousin Naomi Breshears Barbor, and close friends Billy and Cheryl Pawelcik. Details for a public memorial will be announced at a later date. Jack is loved and remembered for his sense of humor, extraordinary zest for life, and unwavering contribution to rock and roll, where his legacy will live on forever. His family asks for privacy at this time.”
Jack’s death comes less than a month after he announced his retirement from touring, following a diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA) in May 2024. On July 17, 2024, Jack shared the difficult decision with his fans in a heartfelt statement: “To my fans and friends, it is with the heaviest of hearts that I must announce my retirement from the road. After receiving a recent diagnosis of Lewy body dementia (LBD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA), I am unable to perform at the level I desire and you deserve. Words cannot express how grateful I am for these many years of memories, love, and support. Thank you for allowing me to live my dreams. You’ve made my life wonderful.”
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Lewy body dementia is the second most common cause of neurodegenerative dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. It affects cognitive functions, leading to memory loss, impaired decision-making, and challenges with problem-solving. The disease can also cause motor symptoms, including muscle stiffness and weakness, and is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease due to its overlapping symptoms. Lewy body dementia gained widespread attention in 2014 when it was revealed that actor and comedian Robin Williams was suffering from the disease before his death.
Jack Russell’s journey in rock music began when he co-founded Great White in 1982 alongside guitarist Mark Kendall. The band quickly rose to fame in the 1980s with hits like “Once Bitten, Twice Shy” and “Rock Me,” earning a loyal fan base and a place in rock history. However, Jack’s career was not without its challenges.
In 2003, a tragic event forever changed Jack Russell’s life and career. While performing with his version of Great White at The Station nightclub in Rhode Island, a pyrotechnics display ignited a fire that claimed the lives of 100 people, including the band’s guitarist Ty Longley. The incident led to a lengthy legal battle and left an indelible scar on Jack and the entire rock community.
Following a series of health setbacks, including a perforated bowel and a shattered pelvis, Jack parted ways with Great White in December 2011. These injuries, exacerbated by his struggles with alcohol and medication, took a significant toll on his ability to perform. In 2012, Jack sued his former bandmates over their continued use of the Great White name, leading to a legal settlement in 2013 that allowed him to perform under the moniker Jack Russell’s Great White while the other members continued as Great White.
In recent years, Jack opened up about his declining health and the toll it had taken on his ability to perform. In a December 2023 interview, he candidly discussed the physical challenges of touring, stating, “I enjoy the hour and a half of playing. The rest of it you could take it and do what you would with it. It’s not fun. It’s hard. The traveling is just a drag — it’s a real drag.”
Jack Russell’s autobiography, titled “The True Tale Of Mista Bone: A Rock + Roll Narrative,” was released recently, offering fans an intimate look into his life and career. Penned by novelist Katelyn Louise “K.L.” Doty, the book features a foreword by rock legend Lita Ford and insights from notable figures like Eric Singer, Eddie Trunk, and Kip Winger.
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Jack Russell’s passing is a profound loss for the rock community. He will be remembered not only for his contributions to music but also for his resilience in the face of personal and professional adversity. His voice, once a powerful force on stage, will echo in the hearts of his fans for years to come.
The family has announced that details for a public memorial will be shared at a later date, and they have requested privacy during this difficult time. Jack Russell’s legacy in rock and roll is one that will endure, a testament to a life lived with passion, humor, and an unyielding love for music.
Jack Russell is survived by his wife, Heather Ann Russell, son Matthew Hucko, and a close-knit group of family and friends who stood by him until the end. His impact on rock music and the countless lives he touched through his music will not be forgotten.