Lynyrd Skynyrd has lost another member. Bassist Leon Wilkeson died in his sleep July 27. A preliminary autopsy revealed that he had chronic lung and liver disease. Wilkeson was 49 years old.

Lynyrd Skynyrd was formed in 1964 by friends at Lee High School in Jacksonville, Florida. They performed using various names before settling on Lynryd Skynyrd in 1968, deriving the name from that of Lee High gym teacher, Leonard Skinner. Wilkeson joined the band in the early 70s, around the time Al Kooper signed them to MCA.

The group's debut album for MCA, released in 1973, sold over 500,000 copies. The band become synonymous with "Southern Rock," scoring with such hits as "Free Bird," "What's Your Name," "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Gimme Three Steps."

On October 20, 1977, a plane carrying the group crashed into the Mississippi swamps, killing front man Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines and three others. Founding guitarist Allen Collins was later paralyzed following a car crash in 1986 and died from pneumonia in 1990.

The group disbanded for ten years after the 1977 plane crash, reforming in 1987 for a reunion tour. The band has continued touring to this day and was on a brief break between tour dates when Wilkeson died. The surviving members have dedicated the remainder of the tour to Wilkeson's memory.

Leon Wilkeson and his Lynryd Skynyrd bandmates were inducted into Hollywood's RockWalk on May 24, 1996. Known as "The Mad Hatter" for his trademark hats, Wilkeson is remembered by family, friends and fans alike for his humility and sense of humor. He will be missed by all.