Leon Wilkeson bassist and founding member of southern rock giants Lynyrd Skynyrd died Friday (July 27) at the age of 49.  

According to a statement released by the groups publicity company Chipster Entertainment, Wilkenson died in his sleep but the statement did not elaborate on cause of death. A statement on the bands official website said �more details concerning the circumstances surrounding Wilkeson's death will be revealed as they are known.�

The band is best known for their AOR radio hits �Sweet Home Alabama�, �Free Bird� and �That Smell�. The bands history is a story of tragedy and triumph.  In 1977 they lost vocalist Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and background singer Cassie Gaines when the bands charter plan crashed. The band regrouped in 1987 with Johnny Van Zant, Ronnie's younger brother, taking over vocal duties. Shortly after the band was reunited, they lost another founding member. Allen Collins died from complications while battling pneumonia. In 1986, Collins was paralyzed as the result of an auto accident. 

A memorial service for Leon Wilkeson will be held on Wednesday, August 1st at 11:00 am at the Evergreen Cemetery in Jacksonville, Fla. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Musician's Assistance Program (MAP). 817 Vine Street, Suite 219, Hollywood, Calif., 90038. 
 

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