Allman Brothers guitarist Dickey Betts bids farewell to the world

Dickey Betts the founding member and guitarist of The Allman Brothers Band died at the age of 80, confirmed by Fox News

Betts bid farewell to the world, passing away on Thursday, April 18, at home in Osprey, Florida.

"It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Betts family announce the peaceful passing of Forrest Richard 'Dickey' Betts," Betts' manager David Spero said in a statement to Fox News.

Spero spoke to Rolling Stone that Betts died due to cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

His family made the news public on Instagram and shared a heartfelt post on Betts’ social media handle.

"With profound sadness, the Betts family announces the peaceful passing of Forest Richard 'Dickey' Betts (December 1943 — April 18, 2024) at the age of 80," they wrote.

Revealing that at the time of passing Betts was with his family, the caption says, “The legendary performer, songwriter, bandleader and family patriarch passed away earlier today at his home in Osprey, FL., surrounded by his family.”

"Dickey was larger than life, and his loss will be felt worldwide," Betts family added.

Moreover, they urged fans to give the mourning family some space and privacy, “At this difficult time, the family asks for prayers and respect for their privacy in the coming days. More information will be forthcoming at the appropriate time.”

The Allman Brothers Band was founded in 1969, Betts contributed as a songwriter, instrumentalist, and occasional lead vocalist for the band.

Though he retired from the music industry in 2014, he returned in 2017 quoting 'boredom' as his motivation.