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Lou Donaldson
1926 - 2024
Lou Donaldson
1926 - 2024
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1926
DIED
2024
Lou Donaldson Obituary
Lou Donaldson was an alto saxophonist and jazz great best known for his Blue Note albums of the 1950s and prominence for the decades that followed.
We invite you to share condolences for Lou Donaldson in our Guest Book.
Read the full obituary in Legacy's headline news section.
(Photo: GAB Archive/Redferns)
8 Entries
Michael Grau
March 24, 2025
As a 20 year old college student in Columbus, I got to know Lou a little bit when he visited our coffee house run by jazz guitarist Warren Stephens. This was in the '60s. By invitation, my future wife and I traveled to Dayton to a club to hear him play. I remember it as if it was yesterday...a very special memory, a very special man and a very special jazz saxophonist.
Tony
March 1, 2025
My heartfelt condolences are offered to the family, many, many friends, colleagues and devoted army fans of Mr. Lou Donaldson. Mr. Lou Donaldson was an alto saxophonist and jazz great best known for his Blue Note albums of the 1950s and prominence for the decades that followed. He was greatly admired by many fellow artists and all those who knew him. May the love and many, many special memories you shared with your devoted loved one show how much your life was touched by him. May the God of comfort bless your grieving hearts with strength, loving kindness and peace as the world copes with the loss of Mr. Lou Donaldson. May his music and legacy keep his memory alive forever. Thank you for Mr. Lou Donaldson's contribution to the jazz industry.
Julia
November 28, 2024
My favorite story was when I met him at our family reunion and my aunt was so happy to meet him and to know that he was a cousin. Sincerely, Julia Ruffin by way of Michigan.
RR
November 16, 2024
One of the greats, an outstanding sax player. His works on Blue Note are classic. He most assuredly made his mark in the jazz world. Sincere sympathies to the Donaldson family, so very sorry for your loss, God be with you.
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Mary Hopkins
November 13, 2024
Sorry to hear of the passing of Donaldson. May you find peace and comfort from our Heavenly Father who understands the sadness of losing a loved one in death.
Antoinette Montague
November 13, 2024
Love you Sweet Poppa Lou Donaldson.
Lamont Simmons
November 12, 2024
My condolences. I enjoyed Lou's performances.
RA
November 12, 2024
An incredible saxophonist. His music from the Blue Note was just amazing. One of the best in the field. Truly an icon and legend. So very sorry for your loss. Sincerest condolences to the Donaldson family. May God be with you all to help you through this very difficult time.
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