Beach Boys musician Jeffrey Foskett has died at the age of 67.
Brian Wilson, co-founder of the popular group, confirmed his bandmate's death. Foskett passed away after a battle with anaplastic thyroid cancer.
In March 2023, Foskett posted a video of himself ringing the bell in a cancer ward after a series of radiation trials, describing himself as one of God's “walking miracles.”
The musician said treatment had made him “blooming” after four years of battling cancer and he was happy to have met his new grandson.
Following Foskett's death, tributes poured in from across the music world.
Brian Wilson wrote: “I am so heartbroken that my dear friend Jeff Foskett has passed away.”
Beach Boys musician Jeffrey Foskett has died at the age of 67
In March 2023, Foskett posted a video of himself ringing the bell in a cancer ward after a series of radiation trials, calling himself one of “God's walking miracles.”
“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 ever knew.
“He was a great musical director and guitarist and he 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 don't know what else to say. Love and mercy to Jeff’s family and friends, we will remember him forever.”
John Stamos, a lifelong friend of Foskett, paid tribute to the guitarist.
He wrote: “Today I lost more than one friend; I have lost a part of my soul, my story – Jeffrey Foskett, my dearest friend, brother and the brightest light in my life, has left this world.
“When I received the news this morning, uncontrollable tears streamed down my face, a physical expression of inner grief.”
“Jeff was more than just a friend; He was the one who brought the harmonies of the Beach Boys into my life, and with them a spectrum of color and joy that I never imagined would be a part of my life.
His friends remembered the musician as a “living force, radiant soul.”
John Stamos, a lifelong friend of Foskett, paid tribute to the guitarist
Brian Wilson, co-founder of the popular group, confirmed his bandmate's death. Foskett passed away after a battle with anaplastic thyroid cancer
“He was a living force, a radiant soul whose laughter and wisdom touched everyone he met.” He was an older brother in spirit who guided me, lifted me up and loved 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 with a price – the unbearable pain of loss.”
“When I think of the 40 years we spent together – the loud laughs, the music we believed changed lives, and the unwavering bond of brotherhood – I can’t help but be grateful “Grateful for every moment, every note, every piece of 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, tracked down and befriended Brian Wilson – the beginning of their lifelong musical relationship.
He was considered the “Vice Director of the Beach Boys” and accompanied them on their tours over the decades.
Foskett, who was known for not posting often on social media, last shared a video of himself ringing the bell at a cancer hospital in Houston in March.
Brian Wilson with his music director Jeffrey Foskett in 2009
The beloved musician wrote: “I rang The Bell on Friday March 3rd after completing my second round of Radiation.” Some of the last four years have been trying (I guess that's why they call it a clinical trial ).
“It tests my mind, body and soul, but it has brought me success and, most importantly, met my grandson Domenic.”
“I don't post on social media often, but I found this milestone significant.” Thank you all for your prayers. They work! I am living proof.
“I am one of God’s walking miracles.”
“God bless you all and God bless MD Anderson.”
Al Jardine and his wife Mary Ann paid tribute to Foskett: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our good friend Jeffrey Foskett, whom we have known for many years.”
“Jeff always stayed in touch with us no matter what Beach Boys hat he was wearing.” He was so talented on so many different levels, but it was his wonderful sense of humor that kept him balanced and helped him achieve them all to overcome the hard blows that come with being in the music business.
“Jeff had an infectious positive attitude and never gave up hope.” God bless his wonderful spirit and zest for life, we will miss him dearly and cherish all the great times we had together.
“We are thinking of his wife Diana, his daughters, his family and his fans everywhere. “Rest in peace, Jeff, and thank you for always making us smile.”