Clark Terry, one of the most widely renowned musicians in the world, recently passed away in his home on Saturday while in the presence of his family members and loved ones, according to Rolling Stone.
In an official statement posted by Gwen Terry in the legendary musician's website, she shared that Clark "has joined the big band in heaven where he'll be singing and playing with the angels."
The trumpeter's wife added, "He left us peacefully, surrounded by his family, students and friends. Clark has known and played with so many amazing people in his life. He has found great joy in his friendships and his greatest passion was spending time with his students."
Gwen ended the message by sharing that Clark will definitely be missed "every minute of every day, but he will live on through the beautiful music and positivity that he gave to the world. Clark will live in our hearts forever." He was 94.
Prior to his demise, reports indicated that Clark is suffering from poor health due to the extreme complications brought about by his adult diabetes. To better arm him in the battle against such intense illness, the highly celebrated musician was confined into a hospice earlier this month. However, Clark eventually succumbed to the complications of the said disease.
Clark is described as a "world-class trumpeter, flugelhornist, educator, composer, writer, trumpet/flugelhorn designer, teacher and NEA Jazz Master." Throughout his career, he was invited to render a performance for eight United States Presidents. Moreover, Clark served as a Jazz Ambassador for State Department tours in areas in Africa and the Middle East.
The Grammy award giving body have constantly recognized Clark's talent and contribution to the industry, as indicated by the three Grammy nominations and two Grammy certificates he received from the body.
In 2010, the jazz legend was bestowed the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Meanwhile, he was acknowledged by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS) committee as a valuable member of society and gave him the NARAS President's Merit Award, which paved the way for his ambassador stint worldwide.
As one of the "most recorded musicians in the history of jazz," Clark had worked with other music legends such as Quincy Jones, Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Dianne Reeves.
