Bluegrass entertainers and fans recall memories with Earl Scruggs | People

BIG LICK, NC (WBTV) - Bluegrass fans around the world are just learning about the death of Earl Scruggs, the man from Shelby, North Carolina who made such an impression on other musicians.

Scruggs passed away Wednesday morning at 88 of natural causes. Flowers will be placed on his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Thursday morning.

Scruggs' funeral arrangements are incomplete. He's survived by two sons, Gary and Randy. Louise, his wife of 57 years, died in 2006.

Previous article: Bluegrass legend Earl Scruggs dies at 88 in Tenn.

Bluegrass entertainer Little Roy Lewis says "Earl was my hero and best friend. I would not be where I am today if it had not been for him. I first heard him in 1947 and knew that I wanted to play banjo. He was one of the first real bluegrass performers. He never thought he was better than anyone else and would sit down and show banjo players his licks."

Lewis recorded a CD with Scruggs a few years ago.

Little Roy and Lizzy Long will be performing at the Big Lick Bluegrass Festival on Friday, April 13 in the Stanly County community of Big Lick and is planning a tribute to Scruggs.

"This is a sad day for bluegrass," festival organizer and bluegrass bass player Jeff Branch said. "Earl influenced many musicians and promoters. He sure influenced me for my love for the music. It was an honor to meet the legend Earl backstage. I will always remember him for his generosity in helping me and for being so genuine."