Jerry is in the hospital for his birthday

Ron Whitfield · Post by **Ron Whitfield** » 6 Mar 2005 7:04 pm

He was taken in by his brother and wife on Fri.

He could sure use some positives sent his way at this time.

Rick Aiello · Post by **Rick Aiello** » 6 Mar 2005 7:17 pm

My letter and photos of my babies are on the way ...

Ellie, Emmie and Dusty will put a smile on his face ...

Jeff Strouse · Post by **Jeff Strouse** » 6 Mar 2005 8:08 pm

Rick Alexander · Post by **Rick Alexander** » 6 Mar 2005 9:08 pm

That sucks. Jerry of all people should not have to suffer.

Don Kona Woods · Post by **Don Kona Woods** » 6 Mar 2005 9:26 pm

Jerry’s life has meant much to all of us in the Steel Guitar World. I am grateful for him.

In a recent correspondence to me from him, it was clear to me that Jerry was depressed about his whole situation as anyone would be.

His life’s work of promoting this wonderful non-pedal steel guitar and helping others in their desire to master it was clearly waning even in his own eyes.

This phase of his life is almost over.

It is sad, but hopefully he is preparing to face his future and his Maker.

My heart and prayers go out to him.

Aloha nui Aloha,
Don

[This message was edited by Don Kona Woods on 06 March 2005 at 09:28 PM.]

John Pelz · Post by **John Pelz** » 6 Mar 2005 9:47 pm

The Master of Touch and Tone is in my thoughts and prayers, and without a doubt in many others', too. His great love for and absolute mastery of the steel guitar has brought the instrument a very long way indeed.

George Keoki Lake · Post by **George Keoki Lake** » 6 Mar 2005 10:37 pm

Words cannot express my deepest regrets to Jerry as he fights for his life. No matter what has been stated on this Forum, back in 1970, there were very, very few active steel guitarists on the Waikiki scene...I found only 2 when we were there. Along comes Jerry in 1972...probably the best thing that ever happened to the Hawaiian steel guitar in Hawai'i ! Before too long, he was recruiting young Hawaiian students, guys like Alan Akaka, et al. What previously seemed like doomsday for Hawai'i's own instrument suddenly took on a resurgence thanks to this great musician.
Today, we see the results of his fine teaching as Waikiki and other spots now feature many of his former students, now professional musicians. A truly great legacy for the "Master of Touch and Tone".[This message was edited by George Keoki Lake on 06 March 2005 at 10:38 PM.]

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 7 Mar 2005 3:05 am

Jerry Byrd has been THE icon and beacon of excellence for countless Steelers and Musicians and will continue to be for a very very long time. Jerry's Music, his teaching, his Being and what it has meant to me, ...has been the penacle of my 52 years playing and living Music. I love Jerry and his Music dearly, with the greatest gratitude. I have tried, and it is impossible to even perceive the number of people on this planet that Jerry has brought profound joy and pleasure to ...and will continue to for a very very long time. Could a person hope for any more accomplishment in life to carry into their sunset? My family's prayers, deepest respect, gratitude and best wishes go out to Jerry for whatever God has in store for him.

Aloha,
Denny T~

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 7 Mar 2005 7:21 pm

Having learned of Jerry's hospitalization only last night, I spoke with a family member today who asked me to pass along the following to the SGF:

Pseudo quote in context:

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:<HR>They are more optimistic today as it seems intake of nourishment is key along with helping elevate Jerry's spirits. Cards and letters were suggested as items Jerry would likely appreciate.

PLEASE NOTE: Jerry's post office box has been closed and all mail to that address is being forwarded to Jerry for the time being.

In respect for Jerry's privacy and ability to rest undisturbed, it would be best to not publish Jerry's present physical location.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Although, since it was suggested I might drop by and wish him well, ...I did not take my being asked to not publish his location as meaning others who know Jerry and his whereabouts should not also visit (of course, after "peeking" in to make sure he is not disturbed from rest).

-------

Ray Montee has put out a call on the Jerry Byrd Fan Club website for cards, letters and items sent to Jerry that might help lift Jerry's Spirits; Along with some information about Jerry and the appreciation and gratitude many people feel toward Jerry.

-------

Please remember Jerry in your prayers or however you might appeal to the higher powers of Good. Calling all Angels.....

Aloha,
Denny T~
[This message was edited by Denny Turner on 14 March 2005 at 06:23 PM.]

Ray Montee (RIP) · Post by **Ray Montee (RIP)** » 8 Mar 2005 3:15 am

Hi Denny! Nice of you to provide the update on Jerry's current mailing address........ Very thoughtful and timely of you....much appreciated to be sure. Thanx too for the mention of Jerry's fan club site.

David L. Donald · Post by **David L. Donald** » 8 Mar 2005 6:32 am

I saw Rays other post about sdending Jerry cards.
I sent him one from Chaing Mai Thailand,
of a dozen or so Hmong people in tribal costums haveing a meeting.

I hope it gets to him from the old PO box adress,
and gives him a smile.

Anyone know if he heard Roy Ayers JB Tribute song that was sent on CD?

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 9 Mar 2005 6:33 am

Visiting with Jerry tonight, I was relieved to find him looking rested, looking reasonably well, in reasonably good spirits under the circumstances, and articulate in a number of things we talked about. Even though Jerry was weak, his expressions were spirited. He said he is being well taken care of. He affectionately mentioned Hiram stopping by with his Ukelele and singing some touching Hawaiian falsetta.

Jerry lost his appetite last week and his strength weakened and needed the present intervention. He said he is able to eat a little more now and that the food there is pretty good, and he is also drinking fruit juices. The family is also enterprising upon his sweet-tooth for some supplement. He is still weak but improving. He has been on medication for awhile which has brought his hands shaking under control ...steady when he held them up tonight to show me

.

I will take him a radio tommorrow (hmmmm ...today already!) so he can tune in KKNE, ...now that I know the small size he prefers.

On my way to visit Jerry I did not know what to expect and was apprehentious. When I arrived Jerry's dear wife and her sister were reading the feats of Duke Kahanamoku to Jerry, and were in noticeably good spirits. When I left I felt quite a bit more relieved and optimistic, and sensed same from Jerry's wife.

PLEASE say special prayers for Jerry as often as you can.

Aloha,
DT~

Jim Vogan · Post by **Jim Vogan** » 9 Mar 2005 7:11 am

That's very good news! Thanks for the update, Denny! Happy Birthday, Jerry

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Jim Vogan
Derby SD 10 3&5
G.D. Walker Stereo Steel Combo
Bakelite Ric
Hilton volume pedal

[This message was edited by Jim Vogan on 09 March 2005 at 07:12 AM.]

Jeff Strouse · Post by **Jeff Strouse** » 9 Mar 2005 11:35 am

Thanks, Denny! Jerry you are in our thoughts and prayers!

Happy Birthday!

John Pelz · Post by **John Pelz** » 9 Mar 2005 3:41 pm

Hearing this latest news certainly is heartening; thanks so much for posting it, Denny. Let's keep Jerry and his family in our thoughts & prayers. HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Jerry Byrd!

Post by **Brad Bechtel** » 9 Mar 2005 4:01 pm

Happy Birthday, Jerry! May you be out of the hospital soon!

JOZEF SMITH · Post by **JOZEF SMITH** » 9 Mar 2005 5:08 pm

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JERRY AND WE WISH YOU A SPEEDY RECOVERY.

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 9 Mar 2005 6:11 pm

Please be sure to catch the sound file Rick Aiello posted of Jerry's 'Kaua'i Beauty' played acappella. What a profound treasure and blessing Jerry is to this planet. How fortunate we are to be so aware of such a Treasure that Jerry is. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JERRY; AND THANK YOU FOR PROFOUND JOY AND PLEASURE BEYOND MEASURE.

Aloha,
Denny T~
[This message was edited by Denny Turner on 09 March 2005 at 06:11 PM.]

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 10 Mar 2005 5:31 am

Jerry was moved from a more-immediate care wing to a convelescent wing today. Jerry said he was able to eat even a bit more today, but he was quite weak and tired by the time I got there at the end of the day; Please help pray for his strength. He had some nice flowers, Birthday cards and gifts arranged on a nightstand. I took the liberty to take him a Birthday card from the SGF (Bailif whack my wee-wee if I erred) ...and a Kahuna / Ali'i kukui nut lei ...as well as the small radio he requested. We talked for about an hour, and as usual one of his main conerns is still about the teaching and promoting of Steel Guitar ...especially the deeper soul and nuances for Players to aspire to in achieving their own style. I again "reminded" Jerry what profound joy his Music and generous teaching contributions have provided so many people; To which his response was gracious to have been able to. He also expressed his gratitude for the concern, well-wishes, prayers and appreciation he has received. I left when 2 young nurses were ready to prepare him for the night; But not before asking if they had a spare room / bed where I could get similar treatment.........; smiles but no dice

.

Please continue to pray for our dear Kahuna.

Aloha,
DT~
[This message was edited by Denny Turner on 11 March 2005 at 05:44 AM.]

Ray Montee (RIP) · Post by **Ray Montee (RIP)** » 10 Mar 2005 11:28 am

Denny........thank you so much for your reporter-on-the-spot updates on Jerry Byrd.
You're indeed fortunate to be able to be there and also get to visit "the man"...... but more so, we're all very grateful to YOU for taking the time to share this special event with the rest of us. Very nice of you.
THANK YOU!

Al Marcus · Post by **Al Marcus** » 10 Mar 2005 9:20 pm

Yes, Thank you Denny. Glad to hear that Jerry is showing some improvement. It may be a Happy Birthday for him yet....al

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My Website..... www.cmedic.net/~almarcus/

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 11 Mar 2005 4:41 am

I wasn't able to visit or contact Jerry today (nurse found him resting). I have another critical-watch medical circumstance at home with my 9 year old son as well. 3:00 A.M. and just finishing up my day now. Maybe others in commo with Jerry can also let us know how he's doing "daily". I will try my best to telephone Jerry each day when I can determine he's awake and rested ....and visit as much as possible as long as doing so is helpful and not a bother. Please continue to flood Jerry with cards, letters and especially with prayers ....as I can't think of anything that would be more helpful to Jerry, his family and the doctors.

Aloha,
DT~
[This message was edited by Denny Turner on 11 March 2005 at 04:54 AM.]

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 11 Mar 2005 5:42 am

Thank You all for kind words, but I truely wish I could do the "reporting" anonymously so all thoughts could be directed solely to/for Jerry.

Aloha,
DT~

Howard Tate · Post by **Howard Tate** » 11 Mar 2005 7:14 am

Wow Denny, you must be overwhelmed between Jerry and your son. We love hearing about Jerry but also send our best to you and your son.

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Howard, 'Les Paul Recording, Zum S12U, Vegas 400, Boss ME-5, Boss DM-3
http://www.Charmedmusic.com

Denny Turner · Post by **Denny Turner** » 11 Mar 2005 2:17 pm

Ray, you have email at your SGF email address.

Aloha,
DT~