Lynyrd Skynyrd's guitarist Gary Rossington passes away at 71; details inside

US rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd's guitarist Gary Rossington, the last surviving founding member, passed away at the age of 71. He was one of those who contributed to the formation of the group. Friends and relatives have not released the official cause of death for Gary Rossington.

He was one of the group's original members and co-wrote the 1974 smash song 'Sweet Home Alabama'. He also appears on all of the group's albums.

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On Monday, the Lynyrd Skynyrd official page announced Gary Rossington's demise. A family member, sibling, and friend were mentioned in the opening paragraph of the post.

The post read, ‘Gary is now with his Skynyrd brothers and family in heaven and playing it pretty like he always does. Please keep Dale, Mary, Annie, and the entire Rossington family in your prayers. 

In addition, the band urged that everyone maintain Rossington's privacy as they struggle with their tragic loss and express their condolences to one another. The cause of death wasn't stated in the obituary post.

Gary Rossington previously escaped death when he survived the 1977 plane disaster that also claimed the lives of Ronnie Van Zant, Dean Kilpatrick, Steve Gaines, and Cassie Gaines. Rossington, however, suffered severe injuries, including broken arms and legs as well as punctures to the liver and stomach.

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- PTC PUNJABI