Gregg Allman, founder of Southern rock legends the Allman Brothers Band, has died at the age of 69, according to a statement on the artist’s website.
The statement from Allman’s site says that the singer passed away peacefully in his home in Savannah, Georgia. December 8, 2017 would have marked the singer’s 70th birthday.
“Gregg struggled with many health issues over the past several years. During that time, Gregg considered being on the road playing music with his brothers and solo band for his beloved fans, essential medicine for his soul,” the statement reads. “Playing music lifted him up and kept him going during the toughest of times.”
The statement also included a quote from Allman’s manager and close friend Michael Lehman.
“I have lost a dear friend and the world has lost a brilliant pioneer in music,” Lehman said. “He was a kind and gentle soul with the best laugh I ever heard. His love for his family and bandmates was passionate as was the love he had for his extraordinary fans. Gregg was an incredible partner and an even better friend. We will all miss him.”
Allman’s family suggests that fans can make tributes to Allman by donating to the Gregg Allman Scholarship Fund at the University of Georgia or the Allman/Lehman Endowed Scholarship at Syracuse University.