Alabama‘s Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry are mourning the loss of their fellow founding member, Jeff Cook. Cook passed away on November 7, after battling Parkinson’s disease for ten years. Cook formed Alabama with Owen and Gentry in 1969, and continued to perform with them until the disease’s progression forced him off the road in 2018.
“He lived to play our music we created together,” Owen says. “He could play any instrument he chose, but his harmonies I’ll miss the most. I’m thankful we got to create music together for over 50 years! Wish we could play ‘My Home’s in Alabama’ one more time. I’m hurt in a way I can’t describe! To Lisa, thanks for loving him and being there for him to the end. Play on, Jeff. Love you!”
“Closer than brothers, we lived together more than with our immediate families,” added Gentry. “Don’t think I’ve known anyone who loved playing more. Jeff, along with me and Randy, experienced the highs of undreamed success, as well as some very tough early years. None of us were perfect, but together we had something so special it will never die. No other guitar player I’ve known had the range of styles Jeff had. No one can take your place. Ever. Rest in peace till we get to jam again.”
Cook’s musical legacy was remembered by numerous artists, after the news of his passing was announced.
“So sad to hear of the passing of Jeff Cook,” Jason Aldean said. “I spent a lot of my life listening to him play guitar, what an iconic sound he had. I got a chance to perform with him multiple times over the years and I will never forget it. RIP Mr. Jeff, you are a legend to many of us and your influence will be felt forever in country music.”
“Jeff Cook was a long time friend and brother as has been Randy and Teddy over all these times passing! ” The Oak Ridge Boys tweeted. “This is a heartbreaking loss for all that knew Jeff. ALABAMA is in our prayers… rest in peace Jeff … until the day … Joe, Duane, William Lee and Richard”
“So sorry to hear of the passing of Jeff Cook from the group Alabama,” said Ricky Skaggs. “Jeff was such an integral part of their sound. He was a great musician and singer. Rest in peace old friend.”
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Jeff and Lisa Cook Foundation.
Funeral services have yet to be announced. Everything Nash extends our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Absolute Publicity / Rick Diamond
Jeff Cook is going to be missed. I hope he knew how much his fans loved him. He will long be remembered for his big heart. His family has been and will continue to be in my prayers. He was one Sweetheart of a man.