Dickey Betts, the singer, songwriter, and guitarist of THE ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND, died Thursday morning (April 18) at the age of 80. The cause was cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Betts’s manager David Spero confirmed to Rolling Stone.
“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,” Betts’s family announced in a statement. “The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader, and family patriarch was at his home in Osprey, Florida, surrounded by his family. Dickey was larger-than-life, and his loss will be felt worldwide. At this difficult time, the family asks for prayers and respect for their privacy in the coming days. More information will be forthcoming at the appropriate time.”
