Patriarch proud of success of sons` bands, Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special.
(WorldNews Music)

The patriarch of Southern rock music has died.Lacy Van Zant of Jacksonville didn`t perform on stage or in the recording studio, but he played an important role in the success of the Jacksonville-born bands Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special.Mr. Van Zant was the father of the late Lynyrd Skynyrd founder Ronnie Van Zant, .38 Special founder Donnie Van Zant and Johnny Van Zant, the lead singer for Lynyrd Skynyrd.He died Tuesday at his home of pulmonary disease at age 89. ......