Beloved The Beach Boys musician Jeffrey Foskett dies at age 67 after battle with thyroid cancer: Band’s co-founder Brian Wilson confirms heartbreaking news
Beach Boys musician Jeffrey Foskett has died at the age of 67.
Brian Wilson, co-founder of the beloved band, confirmed the death of his bandmate. Foskett died after a battle with anaplastic thyroid cancer.
Wilson wrote: “I am so heartbroken that my dear friend Jeff Foskett has died.
“Jeff was always there for me when we toured and we couldn’t have done it without him. Jeff was one of the most talented guys I’ve ever known.
“He was a great musical leader and guitarist and could sing like an angel. I first met Jeff in 1976 when he knocked on my door in Bel Air and I invited him in and we’ve been friends ever since.
“I do not know what else to say. With love and compassion to Jeff’s family and friends, we will remember him forever.”
Beach Boys musician Jeffrey Foskett has died at the age of 67.
Friends remembered the musician as “a bright force, a shining soul.”
John Stamos, Foskett’s longtime friend, paid tribute to the guitarist.
He wrote: “Today I lost more than a friend; I have lost a part of my soul, my story – Geoffrey Foskett, my dearest friend, brother and brightest light in my life, has left this world.
“This morning, when I heard the news, uncontrollable tears streamed down my face, a physical manifestation of the inner heartache.
“Jeff was more than just a friend; It was he who brought the harmony of The Beach Boys into my life, and with them a spectrum of colors and joy that I never dreamed would become part of my life.
“He was a vibrant force, a radiant soul whose laughter and wisdom touched everyone he met. He was a big brother in spirit, guiding, supporting and loving me, sometimes more than I thought I deserved.
“Jeff taught me that love is a beautiful and necessary part of our lives, but it comes at a cost—the unbearable pain of loss.
“When I think of the 40 years we spent together—the laughs we shared, the music we believed changed lives, and the unwavering bonds of brotherhood—I can’t help but feel grateful. Grateful for every moment, every note, every wisdom he shared with me.”
Foskett was born in San Jose, California, and began playing in bands as a teenager. He loved the Beach Boys and tracked down Brian Wilson and befriended him, beginning their lifelong musical relationship.
He was considered the “Associate Director of the Beach Boys” and joined them on their tours for decades.
Brian Wilson with his musical director Geoffrey Foskett in 2009.
Foskett, who wasn’t known for posting frequently on social media, last shared a video of himself in March when he called a cancer hospital in Houston.
The beloved musician wrote: “I called The Bell on Friday, March 3rd after completing my second year of Radiation. Some of the last four years have been attempts (I guess that’s why it’s called a clinical trial).
“It is a challenge to your body, mind and spirit, but it has allowed me to thrive and most importantly meet my grandson Domenic.
“I don’t post on social media often, but I think this milestone is significant. Thank you all for your prayers. They work! I’m living proof.
“I am one of God’s walking miracles.
“God bless you all and God bless Dr. Anderson.”
Al Jardine and his wife Mary Ann paid tribute to Foskett: “We are very saddened to learn of the passing of our good friend Jeffrey Foskett, whom we knew for many years.
“Jeff always kept in touch with us, no matter what Beach Boys cap he was wearing. He was very talented on many different levels, but it was his wonderful sense of humor that kept him level-headed and helped him overcome all the challenges that the music business faced.
“Jeff had an infectious positive attitude and never gave up hope. God bless his wonderful spirit and love of life, we will miss him dearly and cherish all the wonderful moments we had together.
“Our thoughts are with his wife Diana, his daughters, family and fans throughout. Rest in peace Jeff and thank you for always making us smile.”