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Post by sneakypete77 on Jan 31, 2024 9:56:39 GMT -5
This is such terrible news, so sad and so unfair that it should happen to such a beautiful lady, devoted wife and soulmate. Thanks to Darian, a few of us who’d driven up to Glasgow in January 2002 to attend the UK premiere of the Pet Sounds tour were allowed to watch Brian and the band rehearsing that afternoon. We sat quietly and respectfully two rows behind Melinda as Brian struggled gamely with his vocal for ‘Time To Get Alone’. She called a halt each time he grappled with a high part, suggesting different ways he could tackle the song. He hung on her every word, trusting her judgement implicitly. More than just a wife, she was his rock, his inspiration and his driving force.
Losing someone close, but especially the love of your life is like dropping into a dark chasm, deep and wide, never knowing when you might hit the bottom. This has happened to Brian too many times already and he has always risen back to the light, but now he’s been slapped down once more. We are all behind you again big fella, and sending endless love your way.
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Post by Sam_BFC on Jan 31, 2024 10:02:49 GMT -5
Very sad news for Brian and family as his statement so poignantly demonstrates.
As fans, we have generally had no to limited direct interaction with Melinda, but there is no question of the profound impact she ultimately had on all of our own lives.
It certainly feels like we are in a totally new era. I wasn't around for the loss of Dennis nor Carl, and things really seemed more or less the same for so many years until, I guess, the pandemic era. Now so many familiar and key figures are leaving us.
Jean Sivers is quoted in LA Times as saying cause of passing was unknown. Love and mercy to Brian and family indeed.
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Post by bessieboporbach on Jan 31, 2024 10:37:10 GMT -5
Very sad news for Brian and family as his statement so poignantly demonstrates. As fans, we have generally had no to limited direct interaction with Melinda, but there is no question of the profound impact she ultimately had on all of our own lives. It certainly feels like we are in a totally new era. I wasn't around for the loss of Dennis nor Carl, and things really seemed more or less the same for so many years until, I guess, the pandemic era. Now so many familiar and key figures are leaving us. Jean Sivers is quoted in LA Times as saying cause of passing was unknown. Love and mercy to Brian and family indeed. I'm still in shock about this news. I apologize in advance for getting needlessly personal, but your mention of not being "around for the loss of Dennis nor Carl" suggests we are in a similar age group (I was 13 when Carl died). Accordingly, Brian has always reminded me of my dad. They have similar expressions, similar struggles, even similar singing voices. And one thing that really marked my dad's life in its later years was that he was cursed, in a sense, with survival: he outlived almost everyone he was close to -- not just his parents (as most of us do), but his siblings, his cousins, his friends, and my mother. I know how lost he was in the wake of all that, and so Brian's statement ("We are lost") resonates with that experience. I believe that it is not just a figure of speech. I actually have trouble fathoming how much pain Brian must be in. You don't have to be particularly sensitive to be brought low by this degree of loss, and Brian (even at his most self-motivated) has always depended upon external support. It is good that he has adult children who seem to be level-headed and who care about him. Daria in particular seems to be the spokesperson for the Wilson-Ledbetter clan (if I'm not wrong about that) and they seem to have a close relationship. I hope they are able to comfort one another as they work through this.
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Post by John Manning on Jan 31, 2024 10:52:53 GMT -5
Mike on X:
Dear Brian,
Our hearts are completely broken upon hearing about Melinda's untimely passing. I want you to know how deeply cherished you are and that you are surrounded by an ocean of love during this trying time, with Jacquelyne and me right by your side.
Brian, we have so many wonderful life memories that warm my heart. I remember being there at your wedding to Melinda, witnessing the growth of your family – from just the two of you to a home of five children, in addition to the radiant Carnie & Wendy.
And then, there were the ecstatic highs of our 50th Anniversary tour. I still recall how Melinda and Jacquelyne poured their hearts and souls into organizing over 70 shows, bringing untold happiness to our fans.
Through all life's highs and lows, including the loss of Dennis, Carl, and our parents - one thing remains constant: we are family, and I will always be there for you.
Facing this immense loss is undoubtedly one of our most challenging times, but as your cousin, I've witnessed firsthand how our music and togetherness have carried us through the toughest moments. In your deepest grief, Brian, remember that you are wrapped in love, always and unconditionally.
Jacquelyne and I want you to know we are here to support you in any way you need. We will always remember Melinda lovingly, for loving you.
May Melinda rest in eternal peace and harmony. 🙏
Remember the love, Mike & Jacquelyne
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Post by John Manning on Jan 31, 2024 10:53:52 GMT -5
Al on FB:
We are very saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of Brian’s loving wife Melinda. We know what an important role she played in Brian’s life, career and love of music. Our hearts go out to Brian, their children Daria, Delanie, Dylan, Dash and Dakota, everyone close to the family and all their friends ❤️
Brian, we will always remember Melinda and are here for you if you need us. With sympathy and love, Al & Mary Ann
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Post by lizzielooziani on Jan 31, 2024 11:11:21 GMT -5
Mike’s post made me tear up a bit. So heartfelt and beautiful.
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Post by AGD on Jan 31, 2024 11:12:33 GMT -5
Woke up this morning half-thinking I'd dreamed it all. Still struggling with the suddenness of it all. Damn. Damn, damn, damn.
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Post by smash em now on Jan 31, 2024 11:21:22 GMT -5
Mike on X: Dear Brian, Our hearts are completely broken upon hearing about Melinda's untimely passing. I want you to know how deeply cherished you are and that you are surrounded by an ocean of love during this trying time, with Jacquelyne and me right by your side. Brian, we have so many wonderful life memories that warm my heart. I remember being there at your wedding to Melinda, witnessing the growth of your family – from just the two of you to a home of five children, in addition to the radiant Carnie & Wendy. And then, there were the ecstatic highs of our 50th Anniversary tour. I still recall how Melinda and Jacquelyne poured their hearts and souls into organizing over 70 shows, bringing untold happiness to our fans. Through all life's highs and lows, including the loss of Dennis, Carl, and our parents - one thing remains constant: we are family, and I will always be there for you. Facing this immense loss is undoubtedly one of our most challenging times, but as your cousin, I've witnessed firsthand how our music and togetherness have carried us through the toughest moments. In your deepest grief, Brian, remember that you are wrapped in love, always and unconditionally. Jacquelyne and I want you to know we are here to support you in any way you need. We will always remember Melinda lovingly, for loving you. May Melinda rest in eternal peace and harmony. 🙏 Remember the love, Mike & Jacquelyne I suppose this is diplomatic above all, but it's interesting to write a tribute to Melinda this way almost exclusively through the prism of Brian.
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Post by AGD on Jan 31, 2024 11:31:57 GMT -5
Mike on X: Dear Brian, Our hearts are completely broken upon hearing about Melinda's untimely passing. I want you to know how deeply cherished you are and that you are surrounded by an ocean of love during this trying time, with Jacquelyne and me right by your side. Brian, we have so many wonderful life memories that warm my heart. I remember being there at your wedding to Melinda, witnessing the growth of your family – from just the two of you to a home of five children, in addition to the radiant Carnie & Wendy. And then, there were the ecstatic highs of our 50th Anniversary tour. I still recall how Melinda and Jacquelyne poured their hearts and souls into organizing over 70 shows, bringing untold happiness to our fans. Through all life's highs and lows, including the loss of Dennis, Carl, and our parents - one thing remains constant: we are family, and I will always be there for you. Facing this immense loss is undoubtedly one of our most challenging times, but as your cousin, I've witnessed firsthand how our music and togetherness have carried us through the toughest moments. In your deepest grief, Brian, remember that you are wrapped in love, always and unconditionally. Jacquelyne and I want you to know we are here to support you in any way you need. We will always remember Melinda lovingly, for loving you. May Melinda rest in eternal peace and harmony. 🙏 Remember the love, Mike & Jacquelyne I suppose this is diplomatic above all, but it's interesting to write a tribute to Melinda this way almost exclusively through the prism of Brian. Damned if he does, damned if he doesn't.
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Post by northcoast on Jan 31, 2024 12:58:18 GMT -5
Mike on X: Dear Brian, Our hearts are completely broken upon hearing about Melinda's untimely passing. I want you to know how deeply cherished you are and that you are surrounded by an ocean of love during this trying time, with Jacquelyne and me right by your side. Brian, we have so many wonderful life memories that warm my heart. I remember being there at your wedding to Melinda, witnessing the growth of your family – from just the two of you to a home of five children, in addition to the radiant Carnie & Wendy. And then, there were the ecstatic highs of our 50th Anniversary tour. I still recall how Melinda and Jacquelyne poured their hearts and souls into organizing over 70 shows, bringing untold happiness to our fans. Through all life's highs and lows, including the loss of Dennis, Carl, and our parents - one thing remains constant: we are family, and I will always be there for you. Facing this immense loss is undoubtedly one of our most challenging times, but as your cousin, I've witnessed firsthand how our music and togetherness have carried us through the toughest moments. In your deepest grief, Brian, remember that you are wrapped in love, always and unconditionally. Jacquelyne and I want you to know we are here to support you in any way you need. We will always remember Melinda lovingly, for loving you. May Melinda rest in eternal peace and harmony. 🙏 Remember the love, Mike & Jacquelyne Shows that no matter what historical discord between the two, blood is indeed thicker than water and in critical moments it is family that pulls you through
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Post by newbbfan on Jan 31, 2024 13:09:55 GMT -5
May or may not have been noted but Al put a beautiful tribute on Instagram as well
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Post by Paul JB on Jan 31, 2024 13:17:47 GMT -5
Still one of my favorite photos of all time. Such an honor to be with these two in 1999 during Brian's first run of solo concerts.
I was right behind you with my brother (not in picture) we had to be just left of that shot. Didn’t know who they were until after the show. Echoing what Pete said about Melinda’s involvement during those early shows…at the show in the pic, she often stood up and waved to Brian when he lost sight of her. Without her support and encouragement Brian’s solo career may not have been what it was. RIP
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rjm
Kahuna
Posts: 215
Likes: 228
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Post by rjm on Jan 31, 2024 13:25:12 GMT -5
Mike on X: Dear Brian, Our hearts are completely broken upon hearing about Melinda's untimely passing. I want you to know how deeply cherished you are and that you are surrounded by an ocean of love during this trying time, with Jacquelyne and me right by your side. Brian, we have so many wonderful life memories that warm my heart. I remember being there at your wedding to Melinda, witnessing the growth of your family – from just the two of you to a home of five children, in addition to the radiant Carnie & Wendy. And then, there were the ecstatic highs of our 50th Anniversary tour. I still recall how Melinda and Jacquelyne poured their hearts and souls into organizing over 70 shows, bringing untold happiness to our fans. Through all life's highs and lows, including the loss of Dennis, Carl, and our parents - one thing remains constant: we are family, and I will always be there for you. Facing this immense loss is undoubtedly one of our most challenging times, but as your cousin, I've witnessed firsthand how our music and togetherness have carried us through the toughest moments. In your deepest grief, Brian, remember that you are wrapped in love, always and unconditionally. Jacquelyne and I want you to know we are here to support you in any way you need. We will always remember Melinda lovingly, for loving you. May Melinda rest in eternal peace and harmony. 🙏 Remember the love, Mike & Jacquelyne I suppose this is diplomatic above all, but it's interesting to write a tribute to Melinda this way almost exclusively through the prism of Brian. Compassion is compassion.
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Post by Matt H on Jan 31, 2024 13:44:25 GMT -5
Anyone seen anything from Carnie or Wendy?
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Post by ironhorseapples on Jan 31, 2024 15:50:41 GMT -5
Mike on X: Dear Brian, Our hearts are completely broken upon hearing about Melinda's untimely passing. I want you to know how deeply cherished you are and that you are surrounded by an ocean of love during this trying time, with Jacquelyne and me right by your side. Brian, we have so many wonderful life memories that warm my heart. I remember being there at your wedding to Melinda, witnessing the growth of your family – from just the two of you to a home of five children, in addition to the radiant Carnie & Wendy. And then, there were the ecstatic highs of our 50th Anniversary tour. I still recall how Melinda and Jacquelyne poured their hearts and souls into organizing over 70 shows, bringing untold happiness to our fans. Through all life's highs and lows, including the loss of Dennis, Carl, and our parents - one thing remains constant: we are family, and I will always be there for you. Facing this immense loss is undoubtedly one of our most challenging times, but as your cousin, I've witnessed firsthand how our music and togetherness have carried us through the toughest moments. In your deepest grief, Brian, remember that you are wrapped in love, always and unconditionally. Jacquelyne and I want you to know we are here to support you in any way you need. We will always remember Melinda lovingly, for loving you. May Melinda rest in eternal peace and harmony. 🙏 Remember the love, Mike & Jacquelyne I suppose this is diplomatic above all, but it's interesting to write a tribute to Melinda this way almost exclusively through the prism of Brian. If there is a time and place for Mike-bashng, I'd humbly suggest this thread isn't it.
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mtaber
Grommet
Posts: 3
Likes: 8
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Post by mtaber on Jan 31, 2024 16:38:35 GMT -5
Truly sad news, such a vitally important person in Brian’s life. My condolences to all those grieving, especially Brian and the children. Love and mercy to all.
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Post by luckywilbury on Jan 31, 2024 18:02:36 GMT -5
Some touching words from Elizabeth Banks who played Melinda in Love & Mercy
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Post by Mikie on Jan 31, 2024 19:40:52 GMT -5
I suppose this is diplomatic above all, but it's interesting to write a tribute to Melinda this way almost exclusively through the prism of Brian. If there is a time and place for Mike-bashing, I'd humbly suggest this thread isn't it. No thread is for Mike bashing on EH. We don't do that here. Good way to get booted out.
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Post by Rick Bartlett on Jan 31, 2024 21:17:03 GMT -5
I think I 'tossed and turned' in bed all night just thinking about all this...
One could say you could make a movie about Brian and Melinda, and oh, the irony.... they already did. So fitting. May have to load it up for a rewatch shortly in Honor... Thinkin' about Brian and how the last few years have probably seen changes that we really don't know how it effects him. We know his heart is still heavy not having his brothers around, even after all these years and he gets down on it a bit. Let's not forget either, his right hand man for many years, Jeffrey Foskett, his good friend, is also no longer with us for him. I hope I'm terribly wrong, but he must be feeling so very alone these days. All his senior close family have passed or moved on. Even his older children Carnie and Wendy, seem 'apart' from his life these days and living their own lives... So then who takes care of the younger adopted children? Well, in normal cases, the father, being Brian. But... this is Brian! Who takes care of Brian? Can Brian take care of himself at 80 some years old let alone his young children? One would hope, Melinda had plans in the works in case such things happened... Maybe this twist of fate will bring some of those back into Brian's world.
Like I say, 'I tossed and turned' all night, worrying about another man's problems, and none of it any of my or our business. And 'all out of my control' as well... Brian and the guys have been a part of my life for that long, that it goes beyond the music. Melinda passing, doesn't seem fair at all on Brian at this stage of his life. Also not fair on the kids either... Sending L&M to Brian and Family. Long Promised Road...
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Post by Matt H on Jan 31, 2024 21:30:47 GMT -5
I think I 'tossed and turned' in bed all night just thinking about all this... One could say you could make a movie about Brian and Melinda, and oh, the irony.... they already did. So fitting. May have to load it up for a rewatch shortly in Honor... Thinkin' about Brian and how the last few years have probably seen changes that we really don't know how it effects him. We know his heart is still heavy not having his brothers around, even after all these years and he gets down on it a bit. Let's not forget either, his right hand man for many years, Jeffrey Foskett, his good friend, is also no longer with us for him. I hope I'm terribly wrong, but he must be feeling so very alone these days. All his senior close family have passed or moved on. Even his older children Carnie and Wendy, seem 'apart' from his life these days and living their own lives... So then who takes care of the younger adopted children? Well, in normal cases, the father, being Brian. But... this is Brian! Who takes care of Brian? Can Brian take care of himself at 80 some years old let alone his young children? One would hope, Melinda had plans in the works in case such things happened... Maybe this twist of fate will bring some of those back into Brian's world. Like I say, 'I tossed and turned' all night, worrying about another man's problems, and none of it any of my or our business. And 'all out of my control' as well... Brian and the guys have been a part of my life for that long, that it goes beyond the music. Melinda passing, doesn't seem fair at all on Brian at this stage of his life. Also not fair on the kids either... Sending L&M to Brian and Family. Long Promised Road... I believe David Leaf lost his wife in the last 20 years, I’m hoping he is able to help Brian to deal with his grief.
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Post by Emdeeh on Jan 31, 2024 23:02:51 GMT -5
I believe David Leaf lost his wife in the last 20 years, I’m hoping he is able to help Brian to deal with his grief. That is my hope as well. Probyn Gregory posted this on his social media: "Shocked at today's loss of Melinda Ledbetter Wilson. I wouldn't have had a shot at being in the Brian Wilson Band if she hadn't nudged Brian about having that band he liked, Wondermints come out and audition in St. Charles IL right around this time of year in 1999. My heart goes out to the family and friends who are left behind. People, please pray for Brian Douglas Wilson." And Matt Jardine posted: "I'm so sorry to hear about Melinda's passing. Thinking of you Brian Wilson and sending you and your family peace and love during this time. "Rest easy Melinda." I'm still looking for other responses from the BW band members.
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petsite
Author/Historian/ Researcher
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Likes: 3,255
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Post by petsite on Jan 31, 2024 23:11:35 GMT -5
I told someone the following today and feel like posting it here. This person asked how important Melinda was to the Brian story:
NO MELINDA=NO BRIAN. No ifs, ands, or butts.
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Post by catbirdman on Jan 31, 2024 23:44:14 GMT -5
Just heard about Melinda's passing and it hit me in the gut, as I'm sure it has with everyone here. Too much to say, no idea what to say. Praying for divine love and mercy for Brian and the children.
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Post by AGD on Feb 1, 2024 0:35:08 GMT -5
I think I 'tossed and turned' in bed all night just thinking about all this... One could say you could make a movie about Brian and Melinda, and oh, the irony.... they already did. So fitting. May have to load it up for a rewatch shortly in Honor... Thinkin' about Brian and how the last few years have probably seen changes that we really don't know how it effects him. We know his heart is still heavy not having his brothers around, even after all these years and he gets down on it a bit. Let's not forget either, his right hand man for many years, Jeffrey Foskett, his good friend, is also no longer with us for him. I hope I'm terribly wrong, but he must be feeling so very alone these days. All his senior close family have passed or moved on. Even his older children Carnie and Wendy, seem 'apart' from his life these days and living their own lives... So then who takes care of the younger adopted children? Well, in normal cases, the father, being Brian. But... this is Brian! Who takes care of Brian? Can Brian take care of himself at 80 some years old let alone his young children? One would hope, Melinda had plans in the works in case such things happened... Maybe this twist of fate will bring some of those back into Brian's world. Like I say, 'I tossed and turned' all night, worrying about another man's problems, and none of it any of my or our business. And 'all out of my control' as well... Brian and the guys have been a part of my life for that long, that it goes beyond the music. Melinda passing, doesn't seem fair at all on Brian at this stage of his life. Also not fair on the kids either... Sending L&M to Brian and Family. Long Promised Road... I'm guessing Gloria is still Brian's housekeeper.
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Post by SMiLE-Holland on Feb 1, 2024 1:01:33 GMT -5
I believe David Leaf lost his wife in the last 20 years, I’m hoping he is able to help Brian to deal with his grief. That is my hope as well. Probyn Gregory posted this on his social media: "Shocked at today's loss of Melinda Ledbetter Wilson. I wouldn't have had a shot at being in the Brian Wilson Band if she hadn't nudged Brian about having that band he liked, Wondermints come out and audition in St. Charles IL right around this time of year in 1999. My heart goes out to the family and friends who are left behind. People, please pray for Brian Douglas Wilson." And Matt Jardine posted: "I'm so sorry to hear about Melinda's passing. Thinking of you Brian Wilson and sending you and your family peace and love during this time. "Rest easy Melinda." I'm still looking for other responses from the BW band members. This one came from Nelson Bragg: Devastating. I feel for Brian and hope he's OK. Melinda helped him so much. I am grateful for her role in my tenure with the band. Forever grateful. A very sad day. N
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