$this->bbcode_second_pass_quote('', 'O')n January 28, 2009 Billy Powell, 56, died at his condo in Orange Park, Florida. Orange Park Police Lt. Mark Cornett said that Powell called 911 just before 1 a.m. complaining of difficulty breathing. Paramedics found him unresponsive in his bedroom still holding the phone. They performed CPR but he was pronounced dead at 1:52 a.m.
Powell reportedly missed a Tuesday appointment with his doctor for a cardiac evaluation. A heart attack is suspected. An autopsy will not be performed, according to Cornett.
The Lynyrd Skynyrd website published the following statement: “A Great Loss - Beloved Pianist for the Lynyrd Skynyrd Band, Billy Powell, passed away last night. We will post more info shortly. The family and band request your respect and understanding during this difficult time. Thank you.”