Gary Wright passed away after a long struggle with his health, according to TMZ. The musician known for “Dream Weaver” passed away because he had Parkinson’s disease and dementia, as reported by TMZ and confirmed by his friends.
The composer’s son, Justin Wright, shared that his father passed away at their home in Palos Estate, California, on Monday morning, September 4th. This sad event happened about six years after the singer of “Love Is Alive” was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and, not long after, dementia.
Justin explained that as Gary’s Parkinson’s got worse, his dad could not do everyday things like moving around or talking on his own. He passed away with his family close to him.
Elizabeth Freund paid respect and remembered Gary Wright
Elizabeth Freund, who spoke on behalf of Gary Wright, shared with PEOPLE that she met him in 2008 when he joined Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band. They collaborated on various projects in the years that followed. She described him as an amazing musician and a genuinely kind and peaceful person, using the word “devoted” to capture his character.
Gary was really nice and very connected to his spirituality, Elizabeth Freund said. She noticed how much he truly loved his wife, Rose. “Your Love Is Alive- now and always, Gary,” Elizabeth Freund continued in a statement.
Gary’s friends in the music industry confirmed his passing on social media and expressed their sympathy.
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David Pack shares a heartfelt message in memory of Gary
David Pack, one of the founders of Ambrosia, posted a heartfelt message on Facebook to remember his dear friend who had passed away.
In the post, Pack added a picture of them both happily performing on stage. He played the guitar while Gary seemed to be clapping along to the music.
Pack also mentioned that he had admired Gary since his time in the English rock band Spooky Tooth. He called him a legend, highlighting his famous songs like “Dream Weaver” and “My Love Is Alive.”
He also noted that Gary played the keyboard on all of George Harrison’s solo albums. Pack expressed his belief that Gary is now in paradise and that he and George are probably already collaborating on new music.
The musician known for “Holdin’ on to Yesterday” wrapped up his post by reminiscing about the good times that they had together. He mentioned that they were once neighbors and shared a memory of Gary visiting his house with a bag of fresh tomatoes from his garden, wearing his gardening hat.
Pack described this as the true Gary- always with a smile on his face and a desire to share with his neighbor. He believed that this spirit was what inspired Gary to write those timeless songs.
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Stephen Bishop remembered Gary in a heartwarming message
Stephen Bishop also expressed his condolences for the star. He tweeted on X, sharing his sadness upon hearing the demise of his dear friend, Gary. In his tweet, he shared two pictures of himself smiling with Gary, one from their first time performing together and the other from their last time on stage, along with their mutual musical friend, John Ford Coley.
The singer of “Bowling in Paris” had only good things to say about Gary, remembering him as someone with a lively personality and extraordinary talent that made every moment they spent together truly enjoyable.
Gary’s memory will remain alive for a long time. He says that he will never forget the warmth and kindness Gary and his wife Rose showed him. The stories Gary told him about the past will always be close to his heart, Bishop expressed.
He also mentioned his sincere condolences to Gary’s family, friends, and fans, recognizing that this is a tough time for them.
