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Memorial Service for Leon Wilkeson
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Musician’s Assistance Program (MAP). Donations may be mailed to 817 Vine Street, Suite 219; Hollywood, Ca., 90038. Phone: (888) 627-6271.
Leon Wilkeson, one of the founding members of legendary rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd died in his sleep of natural causes last Friday. He was 49.
The band was set to start a lengthy tour on July 30 in Southern California. According to the band’s Web site, shows scheduled through August 7 have been postponed.
The band, best known for songs “What’s Your Name?,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” and “Freebird,” debuted in 1973 and was named after the members’ high school gym teacher, Leonard Skinner. Wilkeson was involved in a 1977 plane crash in Mississippi that killed two band members and a vocalist. They subsequently disbanded, but reunited with additional members in 1987 for a tour. They have continued to tour since then, selling-out concerts nationwide.
The address for the memorial service held at Evergreen Cemetery is 4535 North Main Street in Jacksonville, Fla. Phone: (904) 353-3649.