Alabama members Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry released statements yesterday (Thursday, November 10th) about the passing of their longtime bandmate and fellow founding member Jeff Cook earlier this week.
In a post on social media, Randy wrote, “He lived to play our music we created together. 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!”
Teddy wrote, “Closer than brothers, we lived together more than with our immediate families. 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.”
Jeff died on Monday (November 7th) at the age of 73 after a decade-long battle with Parkinson's disease.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to The Jeff and Lisa Cook Foundation, P.O. BOX 680067, Fort Payne, AL 35968 or through the foundation website at thejeffandlisacookfoundation.org.
Arrangements for Jeff's “Celebration of Life” will be announced at a later date.