It appears he has indeed died. Sad story.
News link: HERE
by Sanchy 7 Replies latest jw friends
What had ailed him ?
You're right this has been a terrible year for muso's !
He had been ill lately so that might indicate he was suffering from some unknown illness.
I always had respect for his musicianship but hated his narcissistic personality and overextended self image of himself that lacked grace and humility.
In spite if him recently leaving the JWs, he still might have a memorial at a Kingdom Hall since he was famous and probably dumped a lot of cash into the contribution boxes.