Dickey Betts from The Allman Brothers Band has passed away.
His family shared the sad news in a statement on Instagram:
“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Betts family announce the peaceful passing of Forrest Richard ‘Dickey’ Betts (December 12, 1943 – April 18, 2024) at the age of 80 years old. The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch passed away earlier today at his home in Osprey, FL., surrounded by his family. Dickey was larger than life, and his loss will be felt world-wide.”
His manager David Spero tells Rolling Stone that he'd been suffering from cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He also had a minor stroke in 2018, that was followed by a fall at home that effectively ended his touring and recording career.
Betts was 80 years old.