Jerry Abbott, the father of late Pantera members Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul, has died at the age of 80.
The news of his passing was reported by his friend Danny Wood Sr., who wrote on social media, “I’m very sad to tell everyone of the passing of a close friend Jerry Abbott. He died last night in a Denton care giving facility. His Family is having a private Funeral for Family and close Friends with a Memorial Service being planned. Details soon.”
Jerry, who was a musician and recording engineer, was an instrumental figure throughout Pantera’s formative years. He managed the band and co-produced their albums during their pre-Cowboys From Hell days in the ’80s.
In 2014, 10 years after the death of Dimebag, Jerry released the autobiography Over My Shoulder: The Life and Times of Jerry Abbott, in which he detailed his relationship with his sons.
In the book, he touched on Pantera’s breakup, writing, “Too much success can breed failure and often does. I think that’s an accurate assessment of what happened to Pantera. It’s like a marriage that’s just too good to believe, and the next thing you know it’s on the rocks.”
Sadly, Vinnie Paul passed away from a heart condition in 2018, nearly 14 years after Dimebag was tragically slain onstage while performing with Damageplan.
These days, Pantera are performing again with a revamped lineup that includes classic members Philip Anselmo and Rex Brown alongside guitarist Zakk Wylde and drummer Charlie Benante, who are filling the shoes of Dime and Vinnie, respectively. They recently wrapped up a headlining North American tour, but will be back on the road this summer supporting Metallica on select North American dates.
Our condolences go out to Jerry Abbott’s family and friends during this difficult time. The post from his friend Danny Wood Sr. can be seen below.