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Gene Pitney Obituary
PITNEY, Gene Gene Pitney, 66, of Somers and formerly of Rockville died on Wednesday, (April 5, 2006), in Welsh Capital, Cardiff, UK. Gene was born on February 17, 1940, in Hartford the son of the late Harold F. and Anna A. (Orlowski) Pitney. He was passionate about his work, but most of all he loved being home with his family. He will be dearly missed, but will live on through his music. He is survived by his loving wife Lynne (Gayton) Pitney, his three sons, Todd, Chris and his wife Shannon, and David; his Akita, Gracie; two brothers, Francis Pitney and Dennis Pitney; two sisters, Shirley Stutz and Nancy Pike; several nieces and nephews. He also leaves his many close friends, associates and dedicated fans from around the world. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 12 at 11 a.m. at All Saints Church, 25 School St., Somersville, CT. Please meet at the church. Gene will be laid to rest in Somers Center Cemetery. His family will receive relatives and friends during visiting hours from 4-9 p.m. on Tuesday, April 11 at the Somers Funeral Home, 354 Main St. (Rt. 190), Somers. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Gene's memory may be made to either the Connecticut Public Broadcasting, 1049 Asylum Ave., Hartford, CT 06105 or to the Humane Society of the United States through their website: www.hsus.org. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Small & Pietras Funeral Home 65 Elm St., Rockville, CT 06066. For online expressions of sympathy to the family please visit www.smallandpietrasfuneralhome.com
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Memories and Condolences
for Gene Pitney
Kathi Beaton & Bob Lugli
September 6, 2024
My thoughts and prayers are with Gene´s family. I just read of his death. Such a surprise because he was so young! My friend Bob and I were driving in CT and passed Rockville, home of the Rockville Rocket. I looked him up online to read the tragic news.
Mark DiMartino
August 13, 2024
Although I came of age during the British Invasion, having a brother 6 years older, I was introduced at an early age to the great pop/rock singers of the early 60's such as Roy Orbison, Del Shannon, Johnny Tillotson but Gene was always and is still my favorite of that era of music.
As I was in Dayville Ct. this past Sunday, my wife and I on our way back to Glenville, NY made a much overdue stop at Gene's resting place. At first we were curious about all the dimes until I recalled his song, "If I Didn't have a Dime"
We were thrilled to have seen Gene at Proctor's theater in 2004 and so impressed at how his voice just soared as it did 40 years before.
As a tenor, I cantor at our local Catholic church, have sung in front of hundreds of people but have always been intimidated to sing karaoke. Should I ever get the courage, "Town Without Pity" will be my choice.
God bless and all the best to Gene's family and friends.
El
April 20, 2024
18 years already! It´s been "Half Heaven, Half Heartbreak" all these years without hearing your voice on the radio. Rock n Roll Heaven has more than one helluva band, but, in my eye, it hasn´t improved since you joined them back in 06. Looking forward to catching "Heavenstock" before I turn 75. Love you, Gene!
El
Marge Billings {longtime fan}
April 1, 2024
I still pull up his music and listen to it . My favorite is It Hurts to be in Love because I can really relate to the song . All of his music had so much meaning . He will continue to be missed by those who appreciated music. Continued condolences to his family .
Marci Wilcox
February 15, 2024
Lost him too young.
antonia almonte
June 16, 2023
I wish you had told me who you was when you bought my 4 teddy bears at the craft show. Your name was on the check , i thought you forged it , you were a very nice person , thanks for the gift box and i did not know who you were til 2022 after my husband died of a heart attack ... God Bless You Gene , You were one of my favorite singers wish i could have said that to you that day !
Marge Billings
May 19, 2023
It's May 2023 and your music is still as popular as it was back then. I listen to it all the time. Great talent. Sadly missed.
Jennifer Pengilly
April 15, 2023
Saw Gene in Cornwall UK in 1974. Never forgotten his amazing voice. Wish he was still with us.
Mark and Judy Aulenbacher
November 24, 2022
Gene thanks for all the great songs & Music
memories, you will never be forgotten.
Sharon Sherwin
March 6, 2022
It is now the year 2022. I grew up in the 60´s in the beautiful countryside of Hunterdon County, NJ where I still live today. I walk and hike most every day on our many hiking paths. Gene´s music is all I ever play on Pandora while walking/hiking. I can´t get enough of his music and beautiful voice. He sucks you into the feelings and emotions of the song and it takes me to a wonderful place in my mind. Before I know it I´ve walked further than planned as I don´t want his music to end! Gene has always been my all time favorite artist and is truly missed
Duane Doherty
May 30, 2021
Was a great pleasure to know Gene and his family as a young man bein there paper boy
Duane Doherty
May 30, 2021
Was a great pleasure to know Gene and his family as a young man bein there paper boy
Marilyn Legault Rummel
April 3, 2019
So many years. I thank all who help keep his story going.. Always in my heart.. Still singing all his songs ..
Maxine Gray
December 13, 2018
It is December 2018 and I still so miss this man. As Christmas approaches I can't help but think of his family. Thank you Lynne, Todd, Chris and David for sharing your wonderful husband/father with the world and for supporting his career. I spend many hours listening to his music and have recently bought four more CDs to replace records. His music is frequently played on our local radio station (Magic).
Lynda Burgess
April 7, 2007
I cannot believe it's been a whole year since you left us and I really still can't believe you are gone. I feel you near me and your picture smiles down at me from my wall. Your music echos through my home, office and car. You and your music will continue to live on in my heart and in the hearts of everyone who loved you. My daughter and I will continue to miss you, we have your music but God now has you in his keeping. Lynda & Kellie Burgess, Perth Western Australia.
tania nash
April 7, 2007
its been a whole year since u left us all ur fans and went into our fathers home thinking of u and his family tania,barry from southampton hampshire uk
Ann Whalen
April 7, 2007
Dear Gene,
You & your music will never be forgotten!
Please watch over my son Matthew who passed away July 31 st last year. He too enjoyed your music even though he was 23 years old. I will have Father John say a 'special mass for my son & you.
Jimmy Jay
April 6, 2007
I can not believe it has been a Year. Time passes but you live on in the hearts of many.
Jimmy Jay
larry polizzotto
April 6, 2007
Hello my friend.......as I drove to work today listening to one of your CD's that's always in my car it's hard to believe it's a year already that you left us. But listen, I'm 64, so I'm not far behind you Gene, just save me a good spot up "there", ok? It seems like yesterday that you borrowed my leather jacket at Palisades Park on a cold day in April 1962 during one of your first outdoor shows. Again, all my best to Lynne and the boys.
Larry Polizzotto
New Jersey
Ann Stroud
April 5, 2007
Dear Gene.
Gone but never to be forgotten alway's in our heart's your soul lives on in each and everyone of us who loved you and that unique voice of your's,taken far to soon(why).
Thinking of his wife and family at this very sad time.
Carole Chilley
April 5, 2007
A year has gone by since Gene's passing and my thoughts go out to his family on this day. As i write this i'm having a quiet moment alone with his music and 24 hours from Tulsa is playing which is my favourite. I know Gene is sadly missed by many and i have lit a candle to his memory.
Cathy Spence
April 5, 2007
I cannot believe that a year ago today my dear friend passed away. I shall light a candle tonight in his memory.To Lynne, Todd, Chris and Dave my heart goes out to you all and I send my love.Gene has left a great big void in the world. From Cathy Spence,old pirate Radio Scotland from the 60's
Susan Briscoe
April 5, 2007
Dear Gene - Jimmy MacPitney.
A Year has gone by since you left us. Yet you are still with us in our hearts, our memories. Your wonderful Music lives on forever.
God Wanted you because you where too good for this Earth.
Now singing with the Angels...
Thinking of Lynne, Todd, Christopher and David.
Love from Sue & Brian Briscoe (Gleeson) in the Land of Oz
Marion Fennelly
April 4, 2007
Thinking of Gene today and every day,love to Lynne, Chris,Tod,and David.
janice franklyn
April 1, 2007
sadly missed by all his fans in wales
Sue & Brian Briscoe
February 15, 2007
Happy Birthday 17th February Dear Gene in Heaven. The Angels will be Singing Happy Birthday and we will be lighting candles.
Father John will be saying Mass at 11.10am St. Peters Catholic Church in Plattsburgh NYS. In Memory of a Wonderful person, Husband, Father and Friend. Condolences to Lynne and the Boys. Thinking of you all.
edward sweeney
February 13, 2007
really enjoyed gene concerts with my wife since 1990 at the london plladium , we planned and booked to see gene perform in scotland in april last year , on mother day in the england .gene was at the cliffs pavillion in southend , the cresendo of love and and cheers just when he walked on that stage that night made was very moving as you may know how loved he was by all in the u . k . that was the last time sadly . we always attended the london area concerts , sadly we are not people that ask to shake his hand , but he always knew his fans with just one smile my fav gene song , enough to make you cry .as i said we planned to travel to scotland from the july when the concerts went on the web site tickets , hotel and flights booked for that weekend , first time we planned to holiday in scotland , we were to upset to travel after the very sad news . i had been walking across trafalgar square around 12 .00 when my wife phoned me with the tragic news . in closing i have always been a big fan of the american song book and have been lucky to have seen so many great stars from sinatra ( 4 ) tony bennett ( lots ) andy williams and many other great american stars ,i my view i will always hold gene in that class of a singer always on stage giving his best one stright after another , no pop singer of his generation could touch him .
back to the last concert on mothers day 31 march in southend ,the love in that concert hall for this man i will never forget .
edward sweeney essex uk
Marion Fennelly
January 31, 2007
I cannot play any other cd's yet,don't know if I ever will.Still miss Gene every day.Marion South Shields England.
Linda Perks
January 19, 2007
Still missing you Gene after all this time. Your memory lives on with all your many fans and family. With love Linda xxx
Robert Wright
October 15, 2006
To Pitney family, I'm so sorry for your loss, i just came across finding out about your loss, and pray that your family is doing o.k during these trying times. Todd, we went to high school together,and I remember the day I met you day once at the house.
He will be missed greatly.........
PAULINE BRUNICK
October 8, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Helen Lamont
September 23, 2006
Gene thanks for all the great memories,you will never be forgotten.Condolences to Lynne and the family.Rest in Peace.
sharon hawkes
September 13, 2006
A part of my youth has gone. I used to look forward to Gene coming to England and saw you every time you came to Westcliff.You are truly, sadly missed.
steve stockford
June 27, 2006
We saw Gene in Oxford UK in 1964,we actually went on two consecutive nights!
Gene was always one of our favourite acts...we shall miss him here in the UK thats for sure.
Dez Stowe
June 27, 2006
FROM THE "STOWE FAMILY ~ UK"
Our Dearest Lynne and family:
I was honoured to talk to Gene who a couple of years ago rang my mum who had cancer and we said thankyou with a gift of an engraved Pewter mug which Gene said was put on his table.
Your old freind Paul Gagliarducci emailed me to say he used my previous message at Gene's funeral which we were praying at Mass in my church in UK on the next Sunday. May God bless you through these times of reflection and to know that many people in UK always loved Gene as it was possibly his second home (yet he always said was always cold and raining yet the warmth of his fans never failed) some things will never change here in UK even the weather!!!!.
Take care even though we haven't spoke or met, our prayers are always with you
Love from Dez, Mel & our daugther Leslie Jean Pui Ling STOWE [email protected]
++(0) 1375 384115 or ++(0) 79 18142243
KATIE AND ADELAIDE FOX
June 24, 2006
THE WORLD HAS LOST A VERY SPECIAL
PERSON.LYNNE CHRIS TODD DAVID AND
YOUR FAMILIES,YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ALWAYS,
THANK YOU FOR SHARING SUCH A WONDERFUL PERSON WITH US.
GENE AND HIS MUSIC WILL LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER.
EVEN AS THE SUN GOES DOWN TO END THE LIGHT OF DAY,ITS RISING ON A NEW HORIZON SOMEWHERE FAR AWAY...
AND THOUGH OUR WORLD SEEMS DARKER
FOR THE LOSS OF ONE WE MISS,
YOUR LOVED ONES LIFE IS DAWNING IN A BRIGHTER WORLD THAN THIS.
SENT FROM GENES NO 1 FANS
Ken & Rockie Eslinger
May 24, 2006
we were in total shock to hear of Gene passing...
My deepest sympathy to the Pitney family..
He will be missed by many..
I'm just sorry I never got to meet or see Gene in person...Loved his Music & the way he sang the songs-Great singer!!!!!
George Ruot
May 22, 2006
I have made the statement over and over that Gene Pitney is the greatest singer I have ever heard. I believe that I have every song of his that has been published. I will continue to search for any recording of his.
Christopher Webb
May 17, 2006
Todd, Chris and Family,
I know this is late, I have just recieved the news. I send my deepest condolences to all, for your loss. After having spent time with you and your family in Somers, I know how close you truly were, that is rare today. A true sense of family is an accomplishment to be held above all others. Your father will obviously live on in the hearts of many.
Nicole Letourneau
April 27, 2006
Lynne, Todd, Chris, & David,
I was so sad to hear of Gene's passing. Please accept my sincerest condolences. Even though it seems like a life time ago, I still have many fond memories from Crystal Lake Beach & Boat Club. I have always enjoyed Gene's music. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jimmy Jay
April 23, 2006
Lynne & the Boys,
I am so sorry for your loss, and the worlds loss. Gene stood "Tower Tall" for you and your family. You should be proud. I will keep the music alive on Rewind Show as you know.
Jimmy Jay
Curly &Phyllis Frazier
April 23, 2006
It has taken some time for us to send our sympathies. We still can't believe that Gene has left all of us. He will never be forgotten. God Bless the entire Pitney Family. Our family used to live across the street from Gene's sister Nancy many years ago. So sorry about the loss of your brother.
Karen White
April 20, 2006
Last night sitting in a restaurant in Plymouth, WI during an investment meeting, A Town Without Pity came on the radio. A few of us listened, sang and quietly remembered Gene Pintey. How lucky were we to have him be a part of our lives. My condolences to his wife, sons and family.
Michael Austin
April 20, 2006
I am still in shock over the sudden passing of Gene Pitney. I am so thankful I was able to see him perform live in February 1996. The show he put on was his first and last visit to Los Angeles in over 30 years. He was incredible! My heart goes out to Lynne Pitney and their two sons.
Mike Austin
Orange,California
A Lifetime Rockville Resident
April 18, 2006
Dear Gene,
From all the Rockville people we
appreciate you and your music and the legend you brought to our town. Thank you Gene, God Bless.
CAROLE&SHAUN ASH
April 18, 2006
gene was a great guy will be sadly missed.we seen him in nottingham 30th march this year he was great really enjoyed concert was looking forward to next year but we will be playing his cds in memory of gene.take care all of genes family.
Dorothy Bloniarz
April 17, 2006
Lynne,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys.
Gene will be sadly missed but his music and memory will go on forever; he never forgot who he was and where he came from.
He put Rockville on the map and for that we will always be grateful.
Love Dorothy
Jeff Slate
April 17, 2006
Gene's music touched my soul. As a New London native and musician/songwriter, it was great to see Gene as an example. But most of all I'm grateful for the music. God bless, Gene.
Edward Ronan
April 16, 2006
My sincere sympathy and condolences to Gene's family and his brothers and sisters.
From a former neighbor who lived at 38 Hammond St. while a young Gene had yet to be discovered.
Helen Lamont
April 14, 2006
May the love of friends and family help you through this very sad time.Gene touched the heart of so many,he will never be forgotten.Rest in peace Gene
Ian and Neelia Jopling
April 14, 2006
Gene was a part of our lives since the early 60's with his music. We have seen him virtually every time he has toured England since then. He was the best. He will be deeply missed. Our hearts go out to Lynne and the boys at this very sad time. God bless - Ian and Neelia Jopling.
Catherine Morris
April 14, 2006
I am so glad i was able to enjoy a show by Gene in Adelaide, Australia last year. He said then one of his sons had said to him, "Dad you'll die on stage" Gene added something along the lines of, "To die doing something I love so much would be a lovely way to die." Thank you for the music. My heart is saddened at your death and my heart goes out to your family. Rest in music heaven always.
Catherine M
Debbie P.
April 13, 2006
To this day hearing "Liberty Valence" brings tears to my eyes. I grew up listening to Gene Pitney in the early 60's on WDRC in Hartford. What a talented ledgend! Condolences to his family. Rock on Gene in Rock N Roll Heaven.
Gerry Smith
April 13, 2006
When I heard of the sudden death of Gene, I was in shock. I have been a fan of Gene for over 40 years. He was a performer who wanted perfection - he cared about his many fans. I have my collection of LP's, CD's and memorabilia and, of course, my wonderful memories of when I met Gene at his UK conventions. My thoughts are with Lynne and the boys at this sad time.
Carole Bailey
April 13, 2006
I have been a fan of Gene and his music since the sixties. Apart from his UK concerts, I also went to some of the UK conventions. It was obvious from these events that his fans were very important to him. At the conventions, he made time to speak with everyone who went along. He was a super guy, a gentleman and I will miss him. My heart goes out to Lynne and his family.
Maria Calvo
April 13, 2006
The first time I listened to his music I was a young teenager in Argentina. I fell in love with the way he could perform his songs and made you think that you were the only one he was singing to. My prayers are with the family.
Maria
anthony & Jamie Cardoza
April 13, 2006
Dear Pitney family:
Somers is, "A Town Without Pitney"!
Although we never met, we are both in the entertainment business and born in Hartford. Gene's songs live on, and will last forever! God bless you all.
Edward & Joyce Keefe
April 13, 2006
To the Pitney Family:
Having grown up during the era in which the music of Gene Pitney began and, being one who still enjoys those special sounds, we send our sincere sympathy to the entire Pitney family at this most difficult time. Gene certainly was a special person both on and off stage and his legend will live on just as his music has over these many years.
Lynda Arter
April 13, 2006
To the Pitney family, Thank you for sharing your loved one with us who so enjoyed his music. Each time I hear one of his tunes, it brings back a special memory from my life.
Susan Shapiro
April 13, 2006
I was totally devastated to hear of Gene's passing. I could not believe it. My husband heard first and called me upstairs to break the news to me as gently as he could.
I have been a fan for 41 years and saw Gene in concert many times, and met him on a couple of occasions. He was a classy guy, and a true gentleman.
Me deepest sympathy to the Pitney family.
He is in Rock and Roll heaven and will never be gone from our hearts.
Bev
April 12, 2006
To the Pitney family, thank you for sharing this American icon with us. He influenced generations with his lyrics and songs. His performance with the Minnechaug chorale in March of 2004, will be forever remembered by those of us fortunate enough to see and hear him. We were so excited and proud he played in our town, we were on cloud 9 for months. God bless you and keep you.
Bev - Wilbraham, MA
Mary
April 12, 2006
To Frank Pitney--Gene's brother. I met you when we camped in Tolland and came by your house. I asked if Gene Pitney was related and you replied, 'Yes, he is my brother". God Bless you Frank in your sorrow.
Bettie Lou Boudreau
April 12, 2006
My deepest condolences go to Gene's family. I first met hin back in my teen years when my girlfriend and I were staying at my grandparents house up on the top of Soapstone Mt during the summer. We would walk all the way down to Jacks Beach every day where Gene's 36 Ford would be parked outside and he would cooking hamburgers on the grill. we would talk to him for hours and when he had to sweep the floor he would always turn on the juke box and Sing. We would always tell him he should be a singer. A Year later he was at the Crystal Ballroom. Then he was on his way. We always followed his career and when ever I hear his music, It brings me back to a wonderful time in the fifties at Crystal Beach. He will be missed,
Bettie Lou Zahornacky Boudreau
Formerly of Hartford Ct
Debbie Grunwald
April 12, 2006
Dear Lynne and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you today as they have been since I heard the terrible news. May God fill your hearts with peace and although the loss is tremendous, may you wake one day with happy remembrances filling your hearts. I have loved Gene's music since I first heard it when I was 12 years old. A lifetime ago. Gene's music was the first music I loaded onto my computer so I could listen to him every time I logged on. I have not been able to listen since last week, but I know there will come a day when it will fill my house, my car, and my ears again. It will forever remain in my heart whether it is audible to others or not.
All my love to you.
Stephen Beech
April 12, 2006
My Deepest sympathies go to the Pitney family. You were blessed with a unique husband and father.
I have loved Gene's music since the early sixties. I new from an early age that one day I would love to sing his songs on stage. This I have been doing for 30 or so years. Having seen him perform many times in England gave me the the insuration to carry on singing his songs . I thank God for lending us such a talented and loving person. He will be sadly missed by all his fans here in Egland and all over the world. To you' his wife Lynn, and son's Chris ,Tod and David. You can be sure that many prayers will be said for you and Gene, and that he will be in the loving care of Jesus.
God bless Gene
Steve Beech
Trudy Gates
April 12, 2006
Please accept my thoughts, prayers and love at this time of loss. I loved his music and have most of his albums. Over 40 years later, I still play them and sing along, knowing all the words. That was Music! Several times, I met Gene at various concerts around CT, along with his friend, Brian Hyland. First at the Manchester Armory, the West Hartford Armory, the Bushnell, and our beloved Crystal Lake Ballroom...remember that? He was always so gracious. Our own, "Rockville Rocket". Thanks to you for helping to make him what he is. You were his life. He will live on in the hearts of so many of us through memories and music.
Trudy Gates
Hartford, CT
Jo Anne Mattern
April 12, 2006
To Lynn and Family...my deepest sympathies to you at the loss of your beloved Gene.
I feel privileged to have known him as the Gene of Gene and the Genials performing at the Rockville Theater and as the shy senior boy who was so sweet to speak to me, a lowly freshman, as he passed in the hallways of Rockville High School.
I followed his career through the years and loved and still love his music which will live on.
Tim Molgaard
April 12, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with Gene Pitneys family today and especially his wife and children. I too lost my father just a month ago. The music world has truly lost a great artist and the world as a whole will not be the same without him. His music will live on in my memory. God bless you and keep you.
Nicole Boisvert Porter
April 12, 2006
Dear Chris, Todd and David,
May your father live on in your memories and help bring you peace.
With deepest sympathy,
Nicole Boisvert and Bill Porter
Jan. Shorter
April 12, 2006
My thoughts are with you the family at this very sad time.
I am so sorry that you had to loose your Husband and Father in this way and especially when he was so far away from you ....my heart goes out to you all.
I have been a Gene Pitney fan for as long as I can remember.
I was bought up in Sussex, England.
I now live in Tauranga, New Zealand and send our heartfelt condolences, from my family, to all of the Pitney family.
Ann Maria Theresa Wadham
April 12, 2006
Gene will always be in our hearts and his music in our souls, with heartfelt sympathy and deepest respect to Gene's wife and family.
From an ardent English fan.
Gill Hodgkinson
April 12, 2006
I could never have guessed that the concert I saw on 22nd March in Basingstoke England would be one of
Gene`s last.His music was the soundtrack to my teens.
I still cannot believe that he has gone and my thoughts are with his family,today especially, as he is laid to rest.
He leaves a tremendous legacy of
unforgettable music and wonderful memories in the hearts of his fans all over the world.
Go on with love Gene and may your
family find comfort in the fact that
all the wealth and fame that you so
rightly deserved, meant little
compared to the happiness you enjoyed at home with your wife and sons.
Thank you for the joy you brought to my life.
God bless you forever.
Bill Sample
April 11, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with Lynne and her sons during this time of loss. I thank them for their parts in helping to make Gene the success he has been for so many years. Gene is gone from this world but his music will always be celebrated!
Anthony & Joanne Valentino
April 11, 2006
Our heart felt condolences to Lynne and all the Pitney family.
Thanks Gene for all the joy you gave us through the years and the many wonderful concerts you gave. We will miss you.
Jayne & Eleanor Niemann
April 11, 2006
you are in our prayers. My mom and dad grew up with the "Rockville Rocket" although my dad passed away in 2004, my mom told me all about Gene and how they listened to him. The Niemann Family (orginally from Ellington)
Jan Dobbie
April 11, 2006
My thoughts and prayers go out to Genes wife and his sons and of course his brothers and sisters at this very sad time. I remember as a child watching him on Top of the Pops and his voice had an impact on me way back then. As an adult now and having a daughter in her teens it struck me how he reached many as she knows his songs very well and plays his music often,even when my daughter was going through a gothic stage, shed still play his Cd, not every artist can acheive that!I never met him but heard and watched him give interviews on the radio and Tv over here whilst on his tour, and he struck me, from those interviews as being very happy and such a great guy. I hope it will be of some comfort to the family that his being so happy, showed that he knew he was well loved by his family, and by people of all ages from all over the world.
Thanks to Gene for the music,
Rest well.
Janx
Carol Rumens
April 11, 2006
I feel very privilaged to have seen Gene for the first time in the flesh. It was in Birmingham UK on the 02/04/2006 and boy was it amazing. Many songs I knew by heart even though I was not born until 1965. My father constantly played his records and made me a tape to listen to when I was a child.
My condolences go to all his family and friends.
Brian & Janet McConville
April 11, 2006
To the entire Pitney family we send our heartfelt condolences. Over the years we have listened, enjoyed and sang along with Gene’s music with some friendly family teasing. Gene and I worked together at the Flying A station and we sang in the church choir, my wife likes to tease me that she knows why Gene made it and I didn’t, at least not as a singer.
We appreciate Gene’s family sharing him with all who loved his music over the years.
We think of Gene as living in the hearts of those he touched ...
for nothing loved is ever lost -
and Gene was loved so much.
Brian McConville &
Janet Schuttert McConville
Martin Habalewsky
April 11, 2006
I have been a fan of Gene Pitney since 1964, when I heard the hit "It Hurts To Be In Love." I began purchasing all his singles as they were released through 1970. By only regret is I was not able to see Gene perform live in Detroit, although I know he appeared here. I had a great conversation with another music hero of mine, Al Kooper, who knew and worked with Gene in his formative years. He recalled the original recording of "Just One Smile," my personal favorite. Kooper later covered this song on the first Blood Sweat & Tears album. This was one tribute among many he received in his lifetime and will continue to earn as a great contributor to popular music. The world has lost an outstanding songwriter, musician, singer and entertainer.
Carol Procknow
April 11, 2006
I have always been a Gene Pitney fan. I got to meet him in 1966 while he was on tour in Madison Wisconsin. I had a picture taken with him and I still have it. He was a sweet and gracious man to a love struck teenager. Please accept my sincere sympathy for your loss. We were indeed fortunate he came our way.
Rand Winspear
April 11, 2006
The legacy of Gene Pitney lives in his music. His passion, his lyrics, his harmony all combined for timeless listening. Thank you Mr. Pitney. You are number one in my collection. May peace be with your family and may you sing again in heaven.
Ron Carlgren
April 11, 2006
What a loss. Great person! Unique style and voice!
Jacqueline Cannon
April 11, 2006
I have loved you Gene for over forty years your music gave me great joy.I have seen you in concerts over all these years the last one 2 April 2006 I never imagined it would be the last.
Goodbye Gene and God take care of you.
To Lynne Todd Chris and David my heart goes out to you in your time of sorrow.
Cheryll Gatzen
April 11, 2006
All of our hearts are a little heavier with the news of Gene Pitney's passing. My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting him at the Oakdale Theatre in September 2001...What an amazing experience...Gene's voice seemed better than it had ever been and what a show he performed. It is especially meaningful for me because Gene Pitney was my husband's all time favorite performer and we were fighting our own battle with cancer then and my husband cried several times during that amazing concert. He brought tears to a lot of people's eyes that night..the emotion he created in all of us is unsurpassed...We had the pleasure of shaking his hand and posing for a photo with Gene..he was ever the gracious gentleman..He made an everlasting impression on both my husband and I. I have since lost my husband, so when I heard the news of gene's death, it evoked so many memories of that night..he made my husband very happy and gave him one of the last happy memories we had together. Just that Gene took time to spend with normal people is a tribute to what he was..he certainly gave us the thrill of a lifetime...he will be missed by millions...at least we can still listen to that magical voice . He is heavens newest angel..how lucky for all who went before him..now they can hear him til the end of time..God Bless the Pitney family..we all feel your pain.
Chandelle North
April 11, 2006
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of this talented man. I remember rushing home from school to see him on Bandstand. Liberty Valance was the first record I ever bought. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
Bert Mulligan
April 11, 2006
My condolences to the Pitney family. A very talented and wonderful person has departed on that train of glory but his words and music lives on.
Chris Tozer
April 11, 2006
Great guy - great voice.
Glenda Lowe
April 11, 2006
How can words express the loss we are all feeling. Gene has been part of my life since I was 14 in 1962. Thank you Gene for the years of pleasure your voice and seeing you at concerts has given me and my husband. My thoughts go to Gene's wife, boys and family at this sad time but may God give you strength to carry you through the next days and months. Rest in peace Gene and Goodnight and God Bless.
Sue Gleeson-Briscoe
April 11, 2006
Gene Francis Alan Pitney
To the man who touched our many lives through his beautiful music
that has lasted the test of time.
He is now singing with the Angels.
Getting them up dancing
May the clouds vibrate with his melodies,
While God taps his foot in time.
To Lynne and Todd, Christopher and David our thoughts and prayers are with you all and the Family.
Lynne Thank you for sharing Gene with his many fans all over the globe. His music lives on and he is looking down at us all.
Mary Carlson
April 11, 2006
My junior high school years were wonderful because of Gene Pitney. Growing up in New Haven, I would listen to WPOP and always loved his music. I am sending my most heartfelt sympathy to his family on his passing. What a wonderful voice and man. I will always remember "The Rockville Rocket"with love.
ARMANDO MORALES
April 10, 2006
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Lynda Burgess
April 10, 2006
What can I say,my thoughts, love, sympathy and parayers are with Lynne and the boys, his beloved Akita, Gracie and all family friends and his legions of wordld wide fans. I have been a fan for over 40 years and have had the great good fortune to see him perform live on many occasions both in the UK and in
Western Australia where I have lived since 1982. I never missed one concert when je came to Perth and was so looking forward to seeing him again later this year. Gene's music was unique as was the man, not spoilt by fame. I will treasure my memories forwver of a personal message he read out in 2003 at his Perth concert, his autographs and my big goof of presenting him with a bunch of roses when I wasl ucky enough to get a front row seat. He had to quickly get these off the stage as he was allergic and flowers make his eys water and make him sneeze! This world is a much sadder place for his loss but much enriched by his presence in the world. I deeply mourne his passing but celebrate a beautiful man with a beatiful voice and even more beautiful soul. He is at peace now with God and the Angels. I will have my own memorial on Wednesday and send my love and support to Gene's family as they say goodbye to their beloved Gene. Rest in Peace. Lynda & Kellie Burgess. Perth Western Australia
Graham Croft
April 10, 2006
I saw Gene many times between 1976 and the present. I first met him personally in 1977 at a concert when I was going through a particularly sad time - Gene offered me some heartfelt advice which changed my life....
To say that I will miss him is a massive understatement.
God bless a real gentleman.
Stacy Harris
April 10, 2006
The world of music has lost one of its most compelling singers.
Granted, with terrorism increasingly as a ever-present, worldwide threat, one can argue the significance given any entertainment news in our now often pseudo-celebrity-saturated society. But to the extent that we celebrate the best of the bunch, I am at a loss to explain the lack of media attention and recognition in the wake of Gene Pitney's passing.
Even Gene's "Nashville connection," the natural local hook for remembering Pitney, seems to be largely forgotten. All of the above is in stark, ironic contrast to the headlines this story has generated in the other countries whose populous revere America's entertainment giants.
Stacy Harris
Publisher/Editor
Stacy's Music Row Report
Andre Archambault
April 10, 2006
"Gene now belongs to the heavens and the stars spell out his name"
So sorry for the loss of your husband and father. He is singing with the angels on this day.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Andre',Dianne,Stephanie & Brianna
Archambault
Chelsea Circle
Tolland, CT
alma renner
April 10, 2006
to the family of gene pitney- he was a very talented man...he shall be missed by many. May peace and comfort be yours...sincerely,ms.almarenner
Matthew Merante
April 10, 2006
To the Pitney Family, my deepest sympathies! I have been a fan of Gene's music since the early 60's! Growing up during that time it was ALWAYS consoling listening to Gene's songs whenever you would stumble along the way ! I had the pleasure of seeing him several times in and around Syracuse and at each concert he always found time to talk to ALL of the fans who wanted to shake his hand or share an old story about his music !! He sincerely seemed like a super guy ! Again to his wife and children I say God Bless Gene Pitney !!!!!
adrienne sempr-capaccio
April 10, 2006
I cannot imagine a world without Gene Pitney in it. We'll never see him in concert again but thankfully we have his recordings to listen to and enjoy. May his family find comfort in knowing that so many other share in their sorrow. May Gene rest in eternal peace. Our loss is heaven's gain.
Patricia Yost
April 10, 2006
My sympathy goes to all of Genes family.
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