Jerry Jeff Walker Obituary

Saw JJW in Abilene, Texas in the 1970s... show opened with a little known comedian-Steve Martin. Jerry Jeff then took the stage and the night´s headliner was the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band who brought the house down with JJW´s "Mr. Bojangles." What a thrill to share your amazing music! You are a treasure and I look forward to hearing you again someday on the other side of the Pearly Gates. God bless you.

i got to see jerry at old man rivers in new orleans a long time ago, he was truly a crowd pleaser, and the crowd loved him, may his music play on forever

Jerry, we miss you, buckeroo! We first met in 1971 in San Diego. Bob's brother, Don, got us backstage passes. I became an instant fan and have followed you faithfully as one of your Gonzo buddies. You are played every day on my playlist. Thanks for thousands of hours of enjoyment! You are #1 in our book. We will hear you again when we join up in Texas Music Heaven!

It has taken over a year to decide what to write. I have loved Jerry Jeff’s music since I was a kid in the early 70s. His style and his voice were so distinctive. He wrote songs that touched every man. They came from his heart and there was no pretense in them. His shows were intimate gatherings and you felt like you had spent an evening with a friend. It was never a concert. It has been hard to listen to his music this last year knowing that I will never see him play again. I’ve just started listening again. Manny’s Hat Song helps me keep an old friend alive in the room. Thank you Jerry Jeff for a lifetime of music that has entertained me, challenged me and always kept me interested to know what you would write next. You were an artist, a truly gifted artist. I feel like I have lost a long time friend. My condolences to you, Susan. Thank you for loving him and being by his side.

When I was 13 went to Sam the Record Man to buy Mr. Bojanles, saw a poster you were playing The Purple Onion coffee house Ryerson, Saw the show 6 feet close to you, went home learned how tp play Mr. B saw him any time he came to Toronto, have all your albums and loved all your different styles. I'll be siting on the Boat Dock looking at the Stars still listen to your 100's of great songs = Can' let er go!
We're so blessed to have your words and music, many great love songs, Cried when I heard you left us = Bye Buckeroo!
Bertie

Thank you for your songs. They bring back many fond memories of my youth. May you rest in God's peace.

Jerry Jeff Walker was such a true soul. What can never be lost is how organic he was in all matters of composition, singing and being. I first came upon his music when I was a freshman at UT Austin in 1991 and his music was a huge part of my journey in college and, now, in life. You were THE true original Texas song man, Jerry Jeff, and we love you forever. Thank you for all you did for the world because you did a whole heckuva lot.

Remembering Jerry Jeff at the Sooner Broadcast System and Willie’s 4th of July Picnic at the Tulsa Speedway ! God Bless!

Farewell the boys in Weymouth are gonna miss you our love goes out to Susan and the kids

jerry jeff was one of a kind a great songwriter and singer i will miss him god bless his family

Find memories of many a night at me highly coffee house when Jerry played there.

Jerry Jeff is just taking the Gonzo Circus to a different city that's all. See you down the road cowboy!

Jerry Jeff saw you live many times and loved every performance.

I first heard about Jerry Jeff the end of the 70s. I broke up with my girlfriend and was heartbroken Jerry had an album out called a man must carry on it helped get me over it. Turn me loose I'll never be the same!!! Love you Jerry jeff. Timmy d sloan

Jerry Jeff. Probably one of the greatest songwriters ever. Came to our college, Bemidji State U, in 1976. Was hooked. JJW was a great American poet! Will be so greatly missed.

I was introduced to JJW back in the 80's by my good friend Dave, we traveled from nearby Delhi to hear him a few times in Oneonta and NYC. Never will forget his show at Damaschke field in the 90's or at the Oneonta Theatre several years later. I always hoped to attend one of his Birthday Bash's but never made it, but I consider myself fortunate that I was able to attend several of his shows. RIP JJW and keep on playing.

Was introduced to Jerry Jeff music on my 20th birthday. Since that time, your music has helped form a part of the soundtrack for my life.

Thank you for the songs, the memories they bring, and for the introduction to Belize.

I Met him in a.....actually at the Yellow Door Coffee house in Montreal - 1968...He already had a 3 or 4 page printed list of all the places he had played. Saw Jerry Jeff as often as I could....even after moving to Calgary, caught him there a few times - then moved further west and saw him play the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver.
The world is short one bright shining star......a one of a kind talent.
Sincere condolences to Susan, Django, and Jessie......

I had the honor of serving as Jerry Jeff's touring sound company for many years during the mid-70s. My crew and I listened in awe many nights from just off-stage to the collective musical genius Jerry Jeff and the multi-talented Lost Gonzo Band exhibited. Long ago I lost connection with the Austin music scene. With great sadness just yesterday I learned of Jerry Jeff's death. To Susan and family, we share your loss...your pain. Jerry Jeff was an icon to the musical world and a loving friend to those who knew him well. He will be greatly missed.

Loved Jerry Jeff's songs, concerts and humanity. You will be forever loved and treasured. My prayers for you, Susan, Jessie and Django + your extended family and friends.

Amazing music, you will be missed. "Change is the most natural thing and Life is mostly attitude and timing" Jerry Jeff Walker Dinosaur Blues. Loved you and your music.

Rest in peace Jerry Jeff Walker! You and your music will be missed! I remember you when you lived in Oneonta, and would come to my parents restaurant with your dad in Sharon Springs, NY.
Love, Kathy (Bautochka) Venette

My wife and I have been fans of JJW since the early 70’s. Anytime he performed in the Midwest we would usually be in the audience. When the Birthday Bashes started in Austin, we attended many and twice did Belize. We’ve indoctrinated children, friends and grandchildren to love “The Wayward Way of Life” and we’ll cherish the memories for a long time while we continue to listen to his music.

Was introduced to Jerry's music by a roommate shortly after seeing John Prine at Hamilton College. Grew to love his music and after moving to the Albany NY area was surprised no one knew him (Oneonta), no obit in local papers. Sad. Miss you buddy.

Saw him in Houston and Austin every chance I could. Wanted to take one of his cruises, never got to it. Gonna miss you Jerry. RIP

Jerry Jeff, your music made my life just a little more happier.

ADDIO TO A LEGENDARY COUNTRY MUSIC SINGER TO YOU !!!!!!!!!! SIR PSALMS 23:01-23:3:00 ........ MARK 1:08-1:11 !!!!!!!!!!! MATTHEW 26:05-26:75 ............ & SAMUEL 1:17:57 .........

Great songwriter who will be missed@

We miss you Jacky Jac!

RIP, great artist. Condolences to the family.

The Old Faces

Your time on earth was not enough
to dance and write and sing,
From your short dream, you just woke up,
to a New Life, Eternal Spring.
You got to meet your friends again,
The old faces with their laughter and their smiles,
You’ll walk together through the stars, dancing in the rain,
a million years, a million miles,
with your guitar and cowboy hat,
playing for angels your new song,
(a new-old star is born imagine that!)
and all your friends playing along.

Marius Alexandru, 11/05/2020

Prayers and love to the family. Jerry Jeff's music and easy going approach to life has influenced my life for over thirty years. He was my favorite artist. God bless!

Deepest condolences to the Walker family, many, many friends, and fans. Mr. Jerry Jeff Walker song "Mr. Bojangles" is a song that many will NEVER be forgotten. May the God of comfort bless your grieving hearts with strength, loving kindness and peace as the world copes with loss the of Mr. Walker. May his music keep his memory alive forever.

Jerry jeff provided so much entertainment for for me and my family all the while our children were growing up. He was our “go to” performer. He sang at my daughters wedding, played at so many of our parties, soothed our souls when we were blue. He helped create and is a part of many wonderful memories, he was truly one of a kind. There will always be a void in our hearts but fortunately he left us with a big part of himself through the wonderful music he left us! Thanks so much Jerry Jeff!

I have been a long time fan. I'm so sorry for this loss. His music and concerts always made me feel like a friend. (((Hugs)))

You rocked here, and you're Rockin' up there, Jerry ! You're mucho loved and missed. Condolences to family❣❣❣

Sincere sympathy to Susan, Django, Jesse and family. Unfortunately it was through his death that I came across his music. I did hear Mr Bojangles but didn't know he wrote it. I have listened to his music every day since and regret now not having known his music before. What an amazing guy. Long will his memory live on. RIP Mr Songman.

In 1974, I was taking my 1 year old for a stroll on Memorial Drive in Boston when I heard the song Charlie Dunn on WCAS radio station. My first inclination was what was That? The next week Jerry Jeff was appearing at the Harvard Square theater with B W Stevenson. Stayed for both shows. I became a fan for 47 years. RIP, you were remarkable.

Rest in peace Jerry Jeff Walker enjoyed your music pretty much You're one of the best

Jerry Jeff has been part of all my teen and adult life. Good, bad, flush or draw. He'll be missed but never forgotten ! Viva JJW.

Followed JJW for 50 years from New England to Texas. The end of an era. First saw him open for Willie in Portland, ME, in my 20’s. Last saw him at the Birchmere right before he announced his cancer in my 70’s. He and Django were fantastic!! Little did we know that would be our last road trip to see him. My favorite place was Gruene Hall in TX. Second weekend in December. Flew from Maine many times to see him. RIP JJW!! Condolences to Susan and his family.

I have enjoyed Jerry Jeff's music, wit, and philosophy since the early 70's. Seen him play in bars, music halls, and opera houses! Shared a hometown (Vernon) with his wife Susan. Ain't got the words to say what a huge impact he has had on my life. Smiles, tears, and waves to his family.

Mr. Bojangles was a big hit for us growing up in the 70's. He will be sorely missed by family, friends and most certainly by his fans.
Sincerely,

What a great songman,and NEVER the wrong man

I imagine you, Mr. Bojangles, and his dog being together and the dancing and singing you’ll enjoy. Thank you for the stories and for being the joyous storyteller.

I grew up in Brooklyn, NY. Me, my two brothers, and all my friends always saw Scamp (going back to the 70's) whenever he played in NYC. Kenny's Castaways, Lone Star Café, Bottom Line and so many other venues. So many great memories. His voice brought us the Rio Grande in song and in spirit. Now JJ and Bojangles are One, perhaps they always were.
I knew a man JJW and he danced and played for you in worn out shoes. He talked and sang about life and helped you forget your blues!
Now there's a picture of my face on the window pane, is it tears I see or is it rain : (

We were saddened to hear of Jerry's passing. Our deepest condolences to all of his family. Vince, our nephew, and good friend of Django, is
deeply saddened by Jerry's passing. He was loved by so many people world-wide. May all of your beautiful memories keep his spirit alive in your hearts forever...he's just a memory away, and we know you have many! Mr. Bojangles will live on in the hearts of many!

Sweet blessings Jerry Jeff, Susan, son Django, and daughter, Jessie Jane. They were my neighbors for several years on Lorrain St. in Austin. He even signed my old 8-track tapes of him and the Lost Gonzo band. Introduced me to all the Icons of Texas Country Music. God Bless you and yours...

Jerry Jeff and Susan were my neighbors for many years. My greatest thrill was when he signed my 8-track tape... Sweet blessings Susan and all who loved him...

Rest in peace, you're already a legend. Now you can play sing your song to all eternity.

The world lost a great great man! I was turned on to him stealing some listens from my older brother's albums when no one was around. Something about this guy in the cowboy hat I liked. Turned my wife on to his songs on long car rides. Took her sister and brother in law to a show at the Zoo Amphitheater and they wondered "why are we going to see this old grey haired guy"? They never missed another show. We never missed a show again except for the time they didn't bring him back, and boy did they get an earful for months! Our first zoo show, whos' behind us, my older brother who's albums I scratched forty years earlier. His passion for entertaining as only he could was off the charts. There are all of JJW Zoo Amph shows then there was the Prince half time show, in that order!! Other than the two or three songs he had to play, every year the songs were different, all favorites! He damn near died of heat and humidity one year, while the band and Django filled in, he could have gone to the hospital or back to the hotel, no one would have blamed him, but he came back out and finished rocking the house. Such an awesome entertainer! Will be greatly missed in Minnesota, it was the first thing on our summer calendar every year. We will be hosting another very special JJW garage party soon and hopefully you can bring a lineup for a JJW memorial jam to the Zoo every summer! The entire JJW family is in our thoughts and prayers!

RIP. Jerry Jeff(Ron Crosby) was a classmate, the class of 1960, from Oneonta High School. My condolences to Jerry Jeff’s family and to all his fans.

rip. the lord broke the mold after you picked up a guitar!

Never saw him live and I regret not taking the time to do so! Big fan and I don't think we'll see another Jerry Jeff in a long long time! R I P Mr Walker! Condolences to the Walker Family!

I first started listening to Jerry Jeff when
Ridin’ High came out. (1975). Loved your music, raised my girls listening to JJ. I was lucky enough to go to 3 Birthday Bash weekends. Was able to meet JJ and Susan for brief conversation. Loved when he’d come to the amphitheater at the mn.Zoo. JJ’s music got me through happy times,and hard times in life. For me it’s like losing a friend of 40 plus years. Rest In Peace Gypsy Songman. Heaven got a great one!! My heartfelt sympathies Susan, Dijanjo and Jesse

One of my favorite old time singers, I was devastated to hear we lost such a talented singer/songwriter. He will be missed dearly.
He is the reason I have rings on my toes.

I've been a Jerry Jeff French Fan since 1978, the year of the release of "Contrary To Ordinary". A couple of months ago, he replied to a post that I wrote on his FB Page. After all these years, he realised that he had a "Tried and True" Fan in France. I'm so glad he knew that. My brown eyes are cryin' and I think I'm gonna dance naked in that High Hill Country Rain tonite. We'll never meet in this world but I'm sure he'll sing Mr Bojangles just for me in the empty dance room on the other side. It's too much tonight. Adios for now Gonzo Compadre. Au revoir, Monsieur Gypsy Songman ! Jean-Pierre, Ol' Cosmic Cowboy in TexaFrance.

What a talent! He was not only a great singer, songwriter and entertainer he made everything fun! His concerts were performed like everyone was family1 I will miss his smile, his voice and his talent! One of a kind! He will forever be missed! My deepest condolences to his family and friends! It is a sad day for us all.

My condolences to the family. I loved the song, Mr. Bojangles, and many of us, will remember him for writing it. May the God of Comfort, continue to comfort, the family, during these difficult times.

Farewell old buddy! You met me but never knew me. I, like many, have been singing and sharing your songs for , it seems a lifetime. I met you with jalapeno Sam Lewis when I was Miss armadillo! What a title!!! Anyway, I’ve lived your songs, sing your life and that’s about it! I took your advice a long time ago when I told you I was a female version of you! You said “don’t hurt yourself darlin!”
My thought are with the wonderful family you have . RIP
Forever in my adventures

Thanks! Thanks for everything.

It’s so much darker when a light goes out than it would have been if it had never shone

First saw him perform back in the 70's. A pretty little Austin girl took me to see him. Didn't manage to keep her but got hooked on Jerry Jeff for life. To me he is a national treasure. My prayers to the family.

So many memories running thru my mind of our summers in Oneonta. Annick and I send our sincerest condolences to Susan and family. "We'll meet again, don't know where, don't know when", but I'll bet it will be in the back of Clyde's old pick-up truck.

My condolences go out to the Walker family. So sorry for your loss. He will be missed by family and friends.

Thank you for giving us such beautiful and touching music. Your talent gave so much joy . Your job on earth is done. Fly with the angels now. You will have good company on the other side. Rest in peace

Your music is perfection. you touched my heart with love faith hope excitement. I was blessed to see you preform in ft Collins Colorado. Keep on keeping on in Heaven

I was first introduced to JJW by a friend in high school and purchased my first album Ridin' High, and listened to it over and over and over. At one point I think I owned almost everyone of his albums, and loved his art for story-telling and being his authentic self, sharing the people he knew, the miles he'd been and the wild things he'd done. I was saddened to hear of the passing of an alternative country legend, and know I will miss knowing he's still out there yodeling and carryin' on. Bending a knee and hat's off to Jerry Jeff, and my condolences to your family, friends and fans on your loss.

I was introduced to Jerry Jeff Walker and his music by accident when I purchased Viva Terlingua on a whim. So glad I did as Ihave been a fan of his music, stories, and how they impacted my life since the 70's. My sympathies and prayers go out to the entire family. JJW will continue to live on in our hearts.

My condolences to Jerry Jeff's family. Jerry Jeff, I listened to and enjoyed your music for 5 decades. Love your voice, stories, and band. Thanks for all the great music. RIP, Jerry Jeff.

RIP Jerry Jeff Walker. Your Great Music will live on! You will be greatly missed.

Worked for Susan and Jerry for many years he will be sadly missed JJ was one of a kind.

With heartfelt sympathy to the Walker family and friends for your loss. May you feel the comfort God gives at this time of sorrow.

I grew up in Cleveland where I first heard Jerry Jeff. I moved to Houston in 1975 to continue College at The U of H.
From then on I saw he at least once a year. In 1986, I moved the Fam to Austin where I was able to see him more than once a year until 2014 when I became disabled.
I will miss him and that whimsical smile.
I have his full catalog on vinyl so, will have his music close to listen to.
RIP Mr. Walker. God Bless Susan and the rest of your Family.

Sad to learn of Mr. Walkers passing. Thanks for his great songwriting and handing down such a timeless piece in Mr. Bojangles. God Bless.

Such wonderful music that will never be forgotten, heartfelt condolences to the Walker family, may God be with all of you as you go through this most difficult time of your loss.

Your songs are sound of my life.
Thank you.
A prayer is my song for you.

Nobody influenced me musically more than Jerry Jeff... I met him a couple of times and unwittingly wound up at his home one day... each of these times I was so much in awe I didn't know what to say... he was, and will always be my hero... I will always... with great respect... love this man... my most sincere condolences to his family and his friends.

His music meant so much to me and my friends! It was the background for so many of our good times. Thanks for your contributions and for your spirit, JJW. tpw

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Vaya con dios Amigo, we will jam again in that big Armadillo World Headquarters in the Sky...

Dear Jerry, my family have loved you and your music, for years. You will always be a part of us. Never missed a concert in my area. Even your audiences were always cool. Carry on dear friend. Your music lives on in us. Please tell Gram Parsons hello for us.

R.I.P Jerry, I loved you and your music. Listened to Viva Terlingua
hundreds of times, and saw you in concert! Gettin' By 's My Stock and Trade

Thank you Jerry jeff for all the beautiful music that you wrote and played and sang. You filled our hearts with joy and sadness and all the emotions of life that you experienced. I've been a fan of yours my whole life after hearing LA Freeway and Bojangles in the late 60s. Rest in peace.

God must be putting the greatest choir together getting all the good ones ready for the big concert of all christ returning

Thank you Jerry Jeff, RIP.

“ Mr. Bojangles “ was a very catchy song to dance to,sing with and to do everyday chores to. Sincere condolences to the family of Mr.jerry Jeff Walker. May the God of comfort and peace strengthen you during this difficult time.

I have been a fan of yours since the 70 ! Seen you in concert many times. RIP Jerry Jeff ! You were the best country western gonzo that ever was !!!!

One of the greatest artists. What a poet and entertainer? I have most of his music, he will live on with me. He is in the comfort of the Lord now.

Mr. Jerry.
Loved "Bojangles," it was heard
hundreds of times in places one wouldn't think. I sang it all the time; washing dishes, making the bed, bath, combing my hair, etc. LOVED THIS CATCHY SONG.
Now you'll.hesr it in Heaven.
RIP Mr. Jerry, you deserve to rest now. God knows best.
Keep singing.
"Bojangles"

RIP Mr.Bojangles ! Never Forget

Very nice man. Very engaging. I had the opportunity to see him perform in large and small venues over the past 20 years several times. My condolences to his family, friends, and fans.

Couldn't wait to attend a weekend birthday bash when I stopped teaching in 2000. Was not disappointed by any of Jerry Jeff's performances and we were able to attend several more. His music has helped me thru several
dark times. Will be listening to his albums today. Heartfelt thoughts and
prayers to his family.

My condolences to Susan and Django.

We lost a beacon of Texas but we now have another star in heaven.

Linda Wynans

My condolences to his friends and family I was a great fan of his musical talents in his community service to preserve music in history

My condolences to his friends and family I was a great fan of his work may he rest in peace

Your songs will be remembered.

Jerry Jeff so much influenced my music style. I wore out his albums and cassettes back in the day. Ride high and sing out loud, brother.

I had the opportunity to meet Jerry Jeff after his concert in Las Vegas back when I was in college. I was in Austin a short time later playing in a golf tournament at Austin CC and he even came out to watch me tee it! A great man who’s music will be missed almost as much as the man himself. Thinking of you, Jessie and your entire family. Much love to you all.

Jeremy Anderson

He may not have written "L.A. Freeway," but the meaning he put into the line, "Love's a gift that's surely handmade," will live forever.