Dear Jimmy,
I think that it was pretty much a given that when I heard about this task, my first instinct was to write about you. What I can say is that after being best friends for eighteen years -- twenty-one if you want to count the last three -- is that I'm not really sure where to begin.
I guess I could start off by saying that you were the most inspirational person I've ever known. You pulled us through the darkest times as a band -- you'd do the stupidest, funniest shit and get us all laughing again when things weren't up to par. It was almost impossible to feel down when you were around. But it wasn't all jokes, either. You could be serious, too. You gave the best advice and was always there to lend an ear. You just had that know about you, when any one of us was down... you knew. You always had a smile on your face even if we knew you were going through shit with Leana or your health.
Not only were you my best friend, you were my confidant, my brother, and one of the biggest musical inspirations I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. Whatever you did, you put the entirety of your heart and soul into it. There was no hesitance there at all, no holding back. You're the best person I know, you'd do anything for someone including giving them the shirt right off your back. Just a great person all around. The loss is something that, for me, will never heal. The guys and I still talk about you every day, still reminisce about shit you've done and what kind of trouble you've gotten us into as kids. I don't think there'll ever be a point where we don't.
I love you, Jimmy. Rest in peace, buddy.
