The statement read, “Jimmy passed away peacefully on the night of September 1 surrounded by his family, friends, music, and dogs,” accompanied by a poignant image of Buffett on a boat. It continued, “He lived his life like a song till the very last breath and will be missed beyond measure by so many.”
Initially, the cause of Jimmy Buffett’s death remained undisclosed, leaving fans and admirers in mourning without a clear understanding of what had transpired. However, a subsequent news release on the official Jimmy Buffett website shed light on the matter, revealing that the talented singer-songwriter had been engaged in a four-year battle against Merkel Cell skin cancer.
The news of Jimmy Buffett’s passing sent shockwaves through the world, and his announcement tweet garnered thousands of reposts and likes. Devastated fans took to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to the legendary artist.
One fan tweeted, “Truly heartbreaking. RIP to a legend like no other.”
Another wrote, “May your soul rest in peace, Jimmy. Thank you for the many years of music that you have blessed this world with. May your memory live on forever.”
A third fan penned, “Enjoy your cheeseburger in paradise my friend, see you in Margaritaville [sic] RIP.”
In addition to his adoring fans, fellow music icons joined in to offer their condolences and share their memories of the late ‘It’s Five O’Clock Somewhere’ hit-maker. Among them was Sir Paul McCartney of The Beatles, who took to X to pay his respects.
In a heartfelt post, McCartney expressed, “It seems that so many wonderful people are leaving this world, and now Jimmy Buffett is one of them. I’ve known Jimmy for some time and found him to be one of the kindest and most generous people.”
He continued, “Right up to the last minute, his eyes still twinkled with a humor that said, ‘I love this world and I’m going to enjoy every minute of it.’ So many of us will miss Jimmy and his tremendous personality. His love for us all, and for mankind as a whole. So long, Jim. You are a very special man and friend, and it was a great privilege to get to know you and love you. Bubbles up, my friend.”
Despite his health battle, Jimmy Buffett continued to perform during his treatment, even making a surprise appearance in Rhode Island in early July, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his music and his fans.
Jimmy Buffett leaves behind a legacy that spans generations, with his music bringing joy to countless lives. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Jane (Slagsvol) Buffett, as well as his daughters Savannah Jane (Joshua) and Sarah Delaney and his son Cameron Marley (Lara). In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Jimmy Buffett’s Foundation Singing for Change, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, or MD Anderson Cancer Center, reflecting his commitment to making a positive impact on the world even in his absence.
RIP.