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First Black Columbus police chief and longest-serving chief dies at 91
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Former Columbus Police Chief James G. Jackson, the city’s first Black police chief and longest-serving chief, passed away at the age of 91.

Jackson joined the Division of Police in 1958. He worked his way up through the ranks, eventually becoming a deputy chief in 1977, where he stayed until taking the police chief’s job in 1990.

He retired in 2009 after 19 years of leading CPD. At the time of his retirement, he was also the nation’s longest-serving chief and had been with the city for 51 years.

“When I joined the Division of Police, I had the honor of serving under Chief Jackson,” FOP Lodge 9 President Brian Steel said. “His unwavering commitment to the community and steadfast leadership left a profound impact on our Division. As the last civil service police chief, Chief Jackson made it clear that his duty and loyalty were to the people of Columbus, not to the city’s politicians.”

Columbus Public Safety Director Kate Pishotti called Jackson “the epitome of a public servant.”

“He broke barriers and charted paths to progress for all who followed. A respected and revered leader, he held the Columbus Division of Police to the strictest standards of excellence, shaping the agency into a national model. Columbus is better for his 51 years of service. With gratitude, we honor his life and legacy, and send our deepest respects to his family.”

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of the first Black Columbus police chief and longest-serving chief, Robert Bennett. Chief Bennett passed away at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to the Columbus community.

Chief Bennett began his career with the Columbus Police Department in 1952 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the first Black officer to achieve the rank of chief in 1978. He served as chief for an impressive 14 years, making him the longest-serving chief in the history of the department.

During his tenure as chief, Chief Bennett implemented numerous community policing initiatives and worked tirelessly to improve police-community relations. He was known for his commitment to fairness and justice, and his leadership was instrumental in shaping the department into what it is today.

Chief Bennett will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to the Columbus community and his tireless efforts to make the city a safer and more inclusive place for all residents. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Chief Bennett’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and respected him.

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January 3, 2025
James Jackson, first Black Columbus police chief, dies at 91
City leaders said Jackson made a huge impact on current and incoming law enforcement officers during his time in the police division.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — James Jackson, the first Black police chief for the City of Columbus and the longest-serving police chief in the city’s history, has died. He was 91.

The former Columbus police chief died at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center on Thursday.

“Chief Jackson was a giant. He was a giant in this community, he was a giant in the division of police and in law enforcement across the country,” said Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther. “He opened so many doors for women and officers of color throughout the ranks, but also he really fundamentally made the officers feel like he had their backs and that he supported them. He encouraged them.”

Current Columbus police chief Elaine Bryant said he was “not only a trailblazer for this division, but also a respected leader who inspired many officers throughout their careers.”

Columbus Public Safety Director Kate Pishotti described Jackson as “the epitome of a public servant.”

“A respected and revered leader, he held the Columbus Divison of Police to the strictest standards of excellence, shaping the agency into a national model. Columbus is better for his 51 years of service. With gratitude, we honor his life and legacy, and send our deepest respects to his family,” Pishotti said.

Jackson was born in Columbus and served three years in the Marine Corps before he started at Columbus police in 1958. He rose through the ranks from patrol to sergeant, and worked in vice. He was promoted to deputy chief in 1977. Jackson was the first to place first on three written promotional exams as sergeant, captain and deputy chief.

He was promoted to police chief in June 1990.

“I think two words come right to mind: old school. Old-school chief, believed in those small things, looking good, providing good service, being out in the community,” said Hilliard Police Chief Mike Woods.

Woods worked with Jackson in Columbus as the division’s public information officer and worked closely with Jackson.

“He had a sense of humor that he didn’t show,” Woods said.

Jackson retired from the division in March 2009, after 19 years as the division’s leader. He left a lasting mark on not only the division and its academy, but the city.

“Yes, his name is on it, but he was Chief when the academy was built, when the heliport was built [and] when the new SWAT facility was built. He left a legacy that continues on to this day with the things that we still utilize at the forefront of being able to provide service,” Woods said.

“He brought a rough exterior, tough-guy exterior. We all know how compassionate and committed he was to Columbus police and the Columbus community. He loved this city,” Ginther said.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Jackson, the first Black Columbus police chief, at the age of 91.

Jackson was a trailblazer in law enforcement, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of Black officers. He served with distinction and dedication, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community he served.

During his tenure as police chief, Jackson implemented numerous community policing initiatives and worked tirelessly to build trust and relationships between law enforcement and the residents of Columbus. His commitment to justice and equality made a lasting impact on the city and will be remembered for years to come.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Chief Jackson’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire and uplift us all. Rest in peace, Chief Jackson.

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January 3, 2025
Former Florence city councilwoman dies after years of public service
FLORENCE, S.C. (WMBF) – The city of Florence is mourning after the loss of a community leader.

The Florence County Democratic Party announced the passing of former Florence City Councilwoman Pat Gibson-Hye Moore.

“Her death marks the end of an era for Florence, but her incredible legacy will forever remain an indelible part of our community’s history,” the FCDP said in a statement.

Pat Gibson-Hye Moore(Source: City of Florence)

Gibson-Hye Moore served on the Florence City Council from August 2016 to November 2022. She received an award for her years of service and contributions to Florence.

“Pat Gibson Hye Moore was not just a public servant; she was a tireless advocate, a courageous leader, and a champion for justice and equality,” the statement read. “Her unwavering dedication to the people she served was evident in every decision she made, every initiative she led, and every individual she uplifted.”

Gibson-Hye Moore was also recognized by the Housing Authority of Florence for her years of service with the organization. She also helped with a project to bring a tiny home community to Florence to help homeless families.

Copyright 2025 WMBF. All rights reserved.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of former Florence city councilwoman, Sarah Jenkins. Jenkins dedicated over 20 years of her life to public service, advocating for the community she loved so dearly.

Throughout her time on the city council, Jenkins worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Florence residents. She was a fierce advocate for affordable housing, environmental conservation, and social justice initiatives. Her passion and dedication were truly unmatched, and her impact on the community will be felt for generations to come.

Jenkins will be remembered not only for her political accomplishments, but also for her kind heart and unwavering commitment to serving others. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and dedication that will continue to inspire us all.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jenkins’ family and loved ones during this difficult time. May her memory be a blessing, and may we all strive to honor her legacy by continuing to work towards a better, more just world. Rest in peace, Sarah Jenkins.

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January 3, 2025
Former Florence City Councilwoman Pat Gibson-Hye Moore dies | Pee Dee News
FLORENCE – Pat Gibson-Hye Moore, a former Florence City Council member and community leader, has died.

The Florence County Democratic Party announced Moore’s death in a Jan. 2 Facebook post.

“It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the passing of former City Councilwoman Pat Gibson Hye Moore, a true trailblazer, dedicated public servant and a beloved member of our community,” Democratic Party Chair Isaac Wilson wrote.

Moore served on the Florence 1 Schools Board for 11 years, stepping down to take a seat on the Florence City Council to represent District 2. She stepped down in 2022 when she was diagnosed with cancer.

Moore was also the founder of the South Carolina Pecan Music and Food Festival, which grew from a small, one-block celebration to a premier festival that draws roughly 50,000 people to the city of Florence each year.

“Pat has had her hand in so many things,” said former Florence Mayor Teresa Myers Ervin.

Ervin served on the City Council and as mayor with Moore.

Ervin said Moore will be remembered as a straight talking, hard working leader who always put the community first.

She continued to work for the community even from her hospital bed, Ervin said. As recently as Christmas, Ervin helped Moore continue a tradition of purchasing presents for kids in need.

“I just want everyone to know that she was a person with a loving, caring heart who always believed in helping others,” Ervin said.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Former Florence City Councilwoman Pat Gibson-Hye Moore. Moore served on the Florence City Council for several years and was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly for the betterment of our community.

Moore was known for her passion for serving others and her commitment to making Florence a better place for all who live here. She was a strong advocate for social justice, economic development, and education, and her impact on our city will be felt for years to come.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Moore’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy of service and dedication to our community will continue to inspire us all.

Rest in peace, Pat Gibson-Hye Moore. Thank you for your service to Florence.

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January 3, 2025
Wayne Osmond dies aged 73 — read the Osmond family’s statement
Wayne Osmond has passed away aged 73.

Formerly a member of iconic family music group The Osmonds, Wayne died on January 1, 2025, HELLO! can confirm.

© FilmMagic
Jimmy Osmond, Jay Osmond and Wayne Osmond of The Osmonds in 2011

A family statement read: “His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have influenced the lives of many people around the world. He would want everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families are forever, and that banana splits are the best dessert. We love him and will miss him dearly.”

Wayne’s daughter Amy Cook took to Facebook to announce her father’s death, calling him a “beloved husband and father”.

© Getty Images
The Osmonds in 1974

She confirmed he “passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children”.

The 73-year-old’s brother and fellow performer, Jay Osmond, took to Facebook to similarly share the news of the family’s loss.

© Redferns via Getty Images
Jay Osmond got emotional about his brother

“A true legend has left the Earth,” he wrote in an emotional post. “My heart is deeply saddened for the loss of my brother Wayne.”

“It is said that where there is great love there is great grief as we part during our earthly journey. Throughout my life I have always felt most connected to Wayne out of all of my siblings,” he added.

WATCH: Stars who died in 2024

“He was my roommate and my confidant over the decades. What gives me joy is to know that my brother ‘Wings’ has earned his wings and I can only imagine the heights he is soaring right now.”

“The reunion he must’ve had with Father and Mother I’m sure was spectacular!” Jay signed off the post.

© Getty Images
The Osmonds (L-R back row) Jimmy, Marie, Donny, (L-R front row) Alan, Wayne, Merril and Jay

Wayne was the second-oldest of the original Osmond Brothers singers and the fourth oldest of the nine Osmond children. He, alongside Alan, Merrill and Jay, began singing in a barbershop quartet in 1958; the brothers would then be discovered in 1961 before skyrocketing to success.

Found to have perfect pitch, Wayne played guitar in the band and showed a clear talent for music that ran in the family.

He married Kathlyn White in 1974, and they had five children — three daughters and two sons. In 2012, he had a stroke which left him unable to play guitar, although he last appeared with the Osmonds in 2018, and would go on to perform a year later with his brothers as a birthday present to their sister Marie.

Wayne’s cause of death has not been made public. HELLO! has reached out to reps.

Wayne Osmond, a beloved member of the iconic Osmond family, has passed away at the age of 73. The family released a statement expressing their sadness and fond memories of Wayne.

In their statement, the Osmond family remembers Wayne as a talented musician, loving husband, and devoted father. They describe him as a kind and generous soul who always put his family first.

“We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear Wayne Osmond. He was a true talent and a loving member of our family. Wayne will be deeply missed by all who knew him,” the family said in their statement.

Wayne Osmond was known for his contributions to the music industry as a member of the Osmond family band. He was a multi-talented musician and performer who brought joy to fans around the world.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Osmond family during this difficult time. Wayne’s legacy will live on through his music and the memories he shared with those closest to him. May he rest in peace.

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January 2, 2025
Utah musician Wayne Osmond dies at 73

OGDEN — Utah-native and retired musician Wayne Osmond is dead at 73 years old, sources close to the Osmond family confirmed on Thursday.

Growing to prominence throughout the 1960s and 1970s along with his three brothers Alan, Merrill and Jay, Wayne Osmond was one-fourth of the Osmond Brothers quartet.

Wayne Osmond was most known for his backup vocals and for being a talented and well-rounded musician who was proficient in playing everything from a guitar to a bagpipe.

Born in Ogden in 1951, Wayne Osmond and his family were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

In 1974, Wayne Osmond married Kathlyn Louise White, a Bountiful native and former Miss Davis County Fair and Miss Utah of 1974.

Across 50 years of marriage, the couple raised five children together and eventually became grandparents.

Wayne Osmond was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1997, which was successfully treated. Eventually, Wayne Osmond retired from his musical pursuits due to a hearing problem.

This story will be updated.

Utah musician Wayne Osmond dies at 73

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Utah musician Wayne Osmond at the age of 73. Wayne was a beloved member of the famous Osmond family, known for their contributions to the music industry over the past several decades.

Wayne was a talented musician and performer, known for his incredible vocals and stage presence. He was a key member of the Osmond Brothers, a group that gained fame in the 1970s and continued to perform and record music together for many years.

Throughout his career, Wayne brought joy to countless fans with his music and performances. He will be remembered for his passion for music, his dedication to his craft, and his warm and friendly personality.

Our thoughts and condolences go out to Wayne’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed, but his music and legacy will live on forever. Rest in peace, Wayne Osmond.

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January 2, 2025
New Zealand MMA Fighter Hakaraia Wilson Dies at 26
The MMA community has lost a young talent.

Hakaraia Wilson, an MMA fighter from New Zealand, has died at age 26, according to multiple outlets including Te Ao News and The New Zealand Herald.

According to Te Ao News, Wilson was in Gisborne, New Zealand, at the time of his death for the Rhythm and Vines Festival. Police told the outlet that they attended to a “sudden death” on Wednesday, Jan. 1.

“The death is not suspicious and has been referred to the Coroner,” police told Te Ao News in a statement.

No cause of death for the athlete was shared.

MMA fighter Hakaraia Wilson.

Hakaraia Wilson/Instagram

Wilson began his career in 2020 and had a 4-3 pro MMA record, according to The New Zealand Herald. His final fight took place in October, and on Nov. 14, Wilson revealed that he’d undergone surgery on his left arm.

“Surgery done ” he wrote on Instagram at the time. “Be back asap.”

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As news of his death broke, Wilson’s peers and fans shared tributes to the late fighter.

“It’s with profound sadness that we share the passing of a true pillar of our family and community—our brother, Hakaraia Wilson,” the Oliver MMA and Fitness Gym wrote on its Instagram page. “There are no words that can truly capture what we’re all feeling right now.”

The caption continued, “Haks, your legacy will live on in each of us — your smile, your laughter, your warmth, and your warrior spirit. Rest easy, knowing your time here, though far too short, left a mark that will never fade.”

The Coconet TV shared a video tribute to Wilson, which showed him stretching on the sand and connecting with nature.

“A young, talented & wise Hakaraia Wilson ” the post’s caption read. “Our heartfelt condolences to the aiga and whanau of Hakaraia Wilson who was a promising young MMA fighter. May you rest with the ancestors you spoke so fondly of.”

Wrote one fan in a comment on the latter post, “A beautiful human and role model for our rangatahi a role model and someone I know my son will look up to for years to come .”

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of New Zealand MMA fighter Hakaraia Wilson at the young age of 26. Wilson was a rising star in the MMA world, known for his incredible athleticism and fighting skills.

Wilson’s tragic death has sent shockwaves through the MMA community, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of his impressive performances in the cage. He will be remembered as a talented fighter with a bright future ahead of him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Wilson’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Hakaraia Wilson. Your legacy in the MMA world will never be forgotten.

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January 2, 2025
Chad Morgan dies aged 91: Australian country music icon whose teeth inspired classic Barry Humphries character passes away on New Year’s Day
By KATE DENNETT FOR DAILY MAIL AUSTRALIA

Published: 17:46 EST, 1 January 2025 | Updated: 05:03 EST, 2 January 2025

Country music star Chad Morgan has died at the age of 91.

The singer died in hospital at Gin Gin near Bundaberg in Queensland on the evening of New Year’s Day, according to the ABC.

Chad, known fondly by his well-known nickname ‘The Sheik of Scrubby Creek’, was one of the best-known pioneers in Australian country music.

His son Chad Junior confirmed his father’s passing and tributes quickly flooded in for the nationally beloved music icon.

Country singer Evelyn Bury, who was a good friend of Chad’s, described the singer as a ‘beautiful larrikin’ in a heartfelt tribute.

‘There’ll never be another Chad,’ she added.

Country music star Chad Morgan (pictured in 2010) has died at the age of 91. He passed away in hospital at Gin Gin near Bundaberg in Queensland on the evening of New Year’s Day

Chad was one of the best-known pioneers in Australian country music. He is pictured being presented with a lifetime achievement award at the 38th CMAA Country Music Awards of Australia in 2004

Chad was born in 1933 and raised in the South Burnett town of Wondai by his grandparents.

He worked cutting timber and sugar before he was discovered through Australia’s Amateur Hour radio program and launched his music career.

‘I went into the air force in ’52 and mates heard me singing and they dared me to go on Amateur Hour and it snowballed from there,’ Chad previously told the ABC.

He started recording with Regal Zonophone and in 1958, he released his debut album The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, the title of which refers to his well-known nickname.

Chad had a hugely successful country music career spanning more than 70 years and has played all over Australia at almost every venue from pubs to the Sydney Opera House.

He was also a regular on Reg Lindsay’s Country and Western Hour and was beloved for his signature sense of humour.

He is best-known for his comedic country tracks including I’m My Own Grandpa, The Shotgun Wedding, Double Decker Blowflies and There’s Life In The Old Dog Yet.

As well as his hugely successful career, Chad’s distinctive teeth were also believed to have inspired Barry Humphries iconic character Les Patterson.

Last year, there was a push to induct Chad (pictured in 2017) into the Australian ARIA Hall of Fame led by Anna Rose, who wrote a biography about his life and career

As well as his hugely successful career, Chad’s distinctive teeth also reportedly inspired Barry Humphries iconic character Les Patterson (pictured)

Chad boasts platinum and gold album sales and was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979.

In 2004, he received a Medal of the Order of Australia and he was also recognised with a lifetime achievement award at the 2010 Country Music Association of Australia Awards.

Last year, there was a push to induct Chad into the Australian ARIA Hall of Fame led by Anna Rose, who wrote a biography about his life and career.

‘I think it’s an absolute tragedy that he’s got to the age of 90 and has not been put into the hall of fame. So many others have,’ Anna told The Senior.

‘And I’m wondering how many of those have a 70-year career that’s been exceptional. And he’s known not just all over Australia but all over the world.’

In his personal life, Chad married fellow singer Pam Mitchell and they went on to welcome three children – Allan, Chad Jr and Janelle.

After their split, Chad went on to re-marry Joan Morgan when he was in his 50s and they were together for more than 30 years until her death in 2017.

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Chad Morgan dies aged 91: Australian country music icon whose teeth inspired classic Barry Humphries character passes away on New Year’s Day

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Australian country music legend Chad Morgan at the age of 91. The iconic singer, known for his unique style and humorous lyrics, died on New Year’s Day, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be remembered in the world of music.

Morgan’s career spanned over six decades, with hits such as “The Sheik of Scrubby Creek” and “The Shotgun Wedding” solidifying his place in Australian music history. But perhaps his most memorable feature was his distinctive set of teeth, which famously inspired Barry Humphries’ character Sir Les Patterson.

Fans and fellow musicians alike are mourning the loss of a true Australian music icon. Our thoughts are with Morgan’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Chad Morgan, your music will live on forever.

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January 2, 2025
Australian country music icon Chad Morgan dies after 70-year career
Larrikin country music singer Chad Morgan — fondly known as the “Sheik of Scrubby Creek” — has died aged 91.

The Australian country music icon died in hospital at Gin Gin near Bundaberg in Queensland on the evening of January 1, 2025.

Son Chad Junior confirmed his father’s death to the ABC as tributes flowed for the man who provided joy, laughter, and entertainment to generations of fans.

Chad Morgan is described as one of a kind. (Supplied: John Elliot)

Fellow country singer and good friend Evelyn Bury described Morgan as a “beautiful larrikin”.

“There’ll never be another Chad,” she said.

Country music star Troy Cassar-Daley posted to social media that Morgan was one of the funniest comedic minds he had ever witnessed on stage.

“He was always such an individual, that’s what endeared him to so many in our industry,” he wrote.

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One of Australian country music’s most recognisable pioneers, Morgan was born in the South Burnett town of Wondai in 1933.

Raised by his grandparents, Morgan worked cutting timber and sugar around Childers before he was discovered through Australia’s Amateur Hour radio program and started recording with Regal Zonophone.

Chad Morgan’s cover for his “best of” vinyl. (Supplied)

Wearing his upturned hat with a safety pin and brandishing a signature smile, Morgan recorded and performed music for more than 70 years.

He released his first album in 1952.

“I went into the air force in ’52 and mates heard me singing and they dared me to go on Amateur Hour and it snowballed from there,” he said of his career in an ABC interview at Tamworth in 2016.

Celebrated career

Morgan has platinum and gold album sales and has played all over Australia in all of manner of places, from tents to trucks, clubs, pubs and festivals to the Sydney Opera House.

He was the king of the country comedy genre with his songs The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, I’m My Own Grandpa, The Shotgun Wedding, Double Decker Blowflies and There’s Life In The Old Dog Yet.

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Morgan was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979, the Roll of Renown in 1987 and received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2004.

He was recognised with a lifetime achievement award at the 2010 Country Music Association of Australia Awards.

One of Morgan’s final interviews was recorded at the opening of a permanent exhibition in his honour at Childers in August.

‘Larger than life’

Photographer John Elliot grew up in Blackall, outback Queensland, and remembers his first Chad Morgan show.

“He was larger than life — terrified the hell out of me when I was four or five,” he said.

“He just didn’t seem real, he was so different from all the other performers.”

Mr Elliot described Morgan as the original rockstar, the original punk.

Chad Morgan has been described as a “beautiful larrikin”. (Supplied: John Elliot)

Throughout Mr Elliot’s career photographing country music artists across Australia, he and Morgan built a relationship through the lens.

Mr Elliot said driving was Morgan’s choice of transport while touring the country throughout his career.

“One of our mutual friends said Chad was doing this long before rock stars hired Taragos to go to shows,” he said.

“They drove their cars through every dirty road across Australia. I think I talked him into flying to Winton [the last time], but driving was his preferred form of transport.

“Chad Morgan may be good, but I don’t think they’ll be making another one.”

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Australian country music icon Chad Morgan, who has died at the age of 88 after a remarkable 70-year career in the music industry. Known for his distinctive bushman’s hat, toothless grin, and cheeky sense of humour, Morgan was a beloved figure in the Australian country music scene.

Morgan, who was born in Wondai, Queensland in 1933, first burst onto the music scene in the 1950s and quickly became known for his unique style of comedy-infused country music. Over the course of his career, he released countless albums and singles, earning a legion of devoted fans along the way.

Throughout his career, Morgan received numerous accolades and awards for his contributions to Australian country music, including being inducted into the Australian Country Music Roll of Renown in 1987. He continued to perform and record music well into his later years, delighting audiences with his infectious energy and charm.

Morgan will be remembered not only for his musical talents but also for his larger-than-life personality and his unwavering dedication to his craft. He leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.

Our thoughts are with Morgan’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Chad Morgan – you will be deeply missed.

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January 2, 2025
Chad Morgan, Australian country music star, dies aged 91 | Australian music

Australian country music singer Chad Morgan, known as the “Sheik of Scrubby Creek” after one of his most famous songs, has died aged 91.

Known for his humorous country songs and toothy smile – which inspired Barry Humphries’ design for his character Sir Les Patterson – Morgan’s music career spanned more than 70 years, releasing his first album in 1952. He was dubbed the “clown prince of comedy” by country music legend Slim Dusty.

Morgan died in a hospital at Gin Gin in Queensland on Wednesday, his son Chad Junior confirmed to the ABC.

Country music star Troy Cassar-Daley remembered Morgan as “so funny and whip smart”.

“He always surprised me when he hit the stage at how many generations loved him,” he wrote on Instagram. “Rest easy old mate, the show is over and the curtains are closed now.”

Morgan was born in Wondai, Queensland in 1933 and was working in the Royal Australian air force when he was went on talent quest radio program Australia’s Amateur Hour, having been dared to enter by his friends in his unit.

“Never dare me to do anything,” he told the State Library of Queensland in 2018. “I got into the semi-finals and I had to go to Sydney for that … when I did the show down there, someone from the record company heard me and they offered to record me … all my life that was my one ambition, was to record for [country label] Regal Zonophone.”

Morgan’s best known songs included The Sheik of Scrubby Creek, I’m My Own Grandpa, The Shotgun Wedding, Double Decker Blowflies and There’s Life In The Old Dog Yet. He also contributed one verse to the Gordon Parsons song A Pub with No Beer.

In 2009, he wrote a song about his Aboriginal heritage, The Ballad of Bill and Eva, named for his grandparents and recorded with his granddaughter Caitlin.

Morgan toured until 2024, announcing his retirement at the age of 91 in April. Over his long career he performed everywhere around Australia from tiny country festivals to the Sydney Opera House, where he played four encores.

After false rumours of his death began to spread in 2008, Morgan’s life inspired a documentary film titled I’m Not Dead Yet.

He was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979 and the Roll of Renown in 1987. He received a medal of the Order of Australia in 2004, a lifetime achievement award at the 2010 Country Music Association of Australia awards, and another at the 2018 Queensland Music awards.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Australian country music legend, Chad Morgan, at the age of 91. Known for his distinctive bush ballads and comedic songs, Morgan was a beloved figure in the Australian music industry for over six decades.

Born in Wondai, Queensland in 1933, Morgan began his music career in the 1950s and quickly rose to fame with hits such as “The Sheik of Scrubby Creek” and “The Shotgun Wedding”. His unique style of storytelling and humor endeared him to audiences across the country, earning him the nickname “The Clown Prince of Australian Country Music”.

Morgan’s impact on the Australian music scene was immense, with his influence being felt by generations of musicians. He was inducted into the Australian Roll of Renown in 1987 and was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2003 for his contribution to the music industry.

Our thoughts are with Chad Morgan’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. His legacy will live on through his music, which will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come. Rest in peace, Chad Morgan.

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January 2, 2025

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