Mudcrutch co-founder Tom Leadon has died. Leadon started the band with Tom Petty in Florida in 1970.

Leadon’s brother shared the sad news in a statement, writing, “It is with great sadness, but profound love and gratitude for his life, that the family of Tom Leadon Nashville, Tennessee and Gainesville, Florida, announce his passing on March 22, 2023 peacefully of natural causes.”

Tom Leadon was 70.

Mike Campbell, former guitarist for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, shared the following message about Tom Leadon on Twitter:

“Tom Leadon was my deepest guitar soul brother, we spent countless hours playing acoustic guitars and teaching each other things. A kinder soul never walked the earth. I will always miss his spirit and generosity. Sleep peaceful my old friend.”

Petty Theft took to Facebook to say, “Tom had a friendly and outgoing personality and sharp wit. He was a great and very funny story teller. Tom loved his family and close friends, and all of the Mudcrutch, Tom Petty, and Bayjacks fans. He enjoyed meeting and talking with all of you. Thank you for helping make his last years great ones. He was greatly loved and will be greatly missed.”