Jack Russell: Great White singer dies aged 63

Jack Russell, co-founder and former lead singer of the band Great White, died Thursday at the age of 63.

In July, the singer publicly shared a statement about his struggles.

His death was confirmed on the musician’s social media.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the loss of our beloved Jack Patrick Russell – father, husband, cousin, uncle and friend.”

Jack passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife Heather Ann Russell, son Matthew Hocco, cousin Naomi Breshears Barber, and dear friends Billy and Cheryl Pawlic.

Details of the public memorial will be announced at a later date.

The battle with disease

In July, the singer publicly shared a statement about his battle with multiple system atrophy (MSA) and Lewy body dementia (LBD).

“I am unable to perform at the level I want to and the level you deserve,” Russell wrote on Instagram on July 17.

“Words cannot express my gratitude for the many years of memories, love and support. Thank you for letting me live my dreams. You have made my life a miracle.”

This “miraculous life” featured notable achievements such as Great White’s hit song “Once Bitten, Twice Shy”, written by Ian Hunter, and several platinum albums during the 1980s metal era.

Russell and his band were also at the center of a major tragedy when their fireworks-filled show at a small Rhode Island nightclub caught fire in 2003, killing 100 people and injuring 230 others.

Among the victims was Great White guitarist Ty Longley, who died in the fire.