Posted @withregram ⢠@koolandthegang STATEMENT OF PASSING OF DENNIS THOMAS/KOOL & THE GANG  On August 7,2021, #DennisThomas (known as âDee Teeâ), beloved husband, father and a co-founder of Kool & the Gang, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 70 in New Jersey.  Dennis was born on February 9, 1951, in Orlando, Florida. He was married to Phynjuar Saunders Thomas and was a long-time resident of Montclair, NJ.   An original member of #Kool&theGang, Dennis was known as the quintessential cool cat in the group, loved for his hip clothes and hats, and his laid-back demeanor. A huge personality while also an extremely private person, Dennis was the alto saxophone player, flutist, percussionist as well as master of ceremonies at the bandâs shows.  Dennisâ prologue featured on the groups 1971 hit, âWhoâs Gonna Take the Weightâ is legendary and an example of his showmanship.  Dee Tee was the groupâs wardrobe stylist who made sure they always looked fresh. In the bandâs early days, Dennis also served as the âbudget hawkâ, carrying the groupâs earnings in a paper bag in the bell of his horn.  Dubbed âthe opening of Americaâ by CNN, Kool & the Gang kicked off the 2021 season of the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on the 4th of July. Sadly, this was Dennisâ farewell appearance with the band.   RIP đâĽď¸ https://www.instagram.com/p/CSS0IaTnRPa/?utm_medium=tumblr