Overview:
The plane crash that involved Lynyrd Skynyrd occurred 48 years ago today. This past weekend, festivities were held at The Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument where the site of the crash occurred. In attendance was Gene Odom, one of the plane crash’s survivors. Speaking with Presence News, Odom gave his thoughts on both the Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument and Lynyrd Skynyrd’s musical legacy.
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music has touched the lives of millions of people worldwide. Southern rock staples such as Sweet Home Alabama and Freebird have remained etched in time. But also, Lynyrd Skynyrd has influenced multiple generations of music lovers.
Lynyrd Skynyrd Remembered
This weekend, festivities honoring the legacy of Lynyrd Skynyrd took place in Gillsburg, Mississippi. Convening at the site of the Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument, fans enjoyed great food and live music.
While attending the events, Presence News got the chance to speak with Gene Odom. Not only is Odom’s life well-connected to Lynyrd Skynyrd, but he also survived the traumatic event that changed the band forever. Forty-eight years ago today, a plane crash occurred in Gillsburg, Mississippi, at the exact site where this weekend’s festivities took place.
Southern Rock Struck by Tragedy
Lynyrd Skynyrd was on tour on October 20, 1977, going from Greenville, South Carolina, to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Sadly, the band was on a chartered plane that ran out of fuel and crashed in a rural area near Gillsburg, Mississippi. People from the area and rescue workers came to help.
Because of the crash, lead singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines, backup singer Cassie Gaines, and assistant road manager Dean Kilpatrick all died. Adding to the fatalities were the pilot of the plane, Walter McCreary, and the co-pilot, William Gray. Fortunately, the other members of Lynyrd Skynyrd at the time survived, as did Gene Odom, who was the security manager for the band.
A Monument to Many
The Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument is funded by Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument, Inc. (LSM), a nonprofit Mississippi Corporation. The monument serves as a dedication to the memory of both those who died and survived that tragic plane crash 48 years ago today.
Speaking to Presence News, Gene Odom gave his thoughts on the Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument. “It’s magnificent; it’s beautiful,” he said. “It’s a monument to the band and the responders in Mississippi.”
Awesome Experience for Fans
Fans of singers and musicians have often cited visiting monuments and memorials dedicated to their favorite songwriters as a fantastic experience. Those who admire Elvis Presley often visit Graceland in Memphis, TN, while Beatles and John Lennon enthusiasts frequent Strawberry Fields in New York City.
The Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument is starting to get a lot of attention. Odom recommends fans of Lynyrd Skynyrd visit the memorial. “Come visit it; it’s extremely peaceful,” he said.
A Musical Legacy That Keeps Going
The fact that Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music has remained relevant for six decades is a testament to their musical abilities. Odom also gave his thoughts on the ongoing relevance of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s music. “A couple of months ago, Sweet Home Alabama clicked over a billion downloads,” he said. “To achieve that success as a band is amazing; very few have done that.”
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s Lyrics Live On
During the festivities in Gillsburg this weekend, one of the musical acts was the Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band, Lone Star Skynyrd. Dressed up in Lynyrd Skynyrd attire, Lone Star Skynyrd powered through every Skynyrd classic from Simple Man to Saturday Night Special.
Fans showed their passion for the music of Lynyrd Skynyrd by repeating the exact words of every song being played by Lone Star Skynyrd. Despite taking place at a site where tragedy occurred 48 years ago today, the event appeared to be very joyous for those in attendance.
For information concerning the Lynyrd Skynyrd Monument, refer to https://www.lynyrdskynyrdmonument.com/.
Sources:
William Barber Interview with Gene Odom October 18, 2025
https://www.lynyrdskynyrd.com/music
https://www.lynyrdskynyrdmonument.com/.
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