Jimmy Buffett’s Wife Remembers His Joy and Humor in Touching Tribute: ‘Jimmy Was Love’

Jimmy Buffett is celebrated by his wife Jane Slagsvol.

The singer-songwriter’s wife of 45 years shared a moving tribute on Saturday following his death on September 1 at the age of 76.

“As Jimmy said a few months ago, ‘aging is not for pussies,'” Slagsvol wrote on Buffett’s website and social media alongside a photo of the couple together. “These last few years have been unimaginably challenging for Jimmy and I, and we’re definitely not pussies.”

Jimmy Buffett, ‘Margaritaville’ singer, dies at 76

Jimmy Buffett’s wife Jane Slagsvol.

Jimmybuffett.com

“One thing we both knew and experienced, through every difficult moment, was the feeling of being supported by all the people in our lives,” she added. “Everywhere we went, in arenas, at events, and even in hospitals, we were surrounded by love. There’s a whole world of people I want to thank for the incredible kindness you’ve shown us.”

“From those early days and through the decades, Jimmy’s fans have become one big, boisterous family,” she continued. “Thank you for creating the most joyful community in the world. The smile Jimmy gave you from the stage sparked your spirit. I think that’s why he loved performing so much. He was so grateful for the community you built around him.”

Slagsvol went on to thank Buffett’s medical team for their “compassion” during his treatment for Merkel skin cancer, noting that they “gave him hope, even in the most hopeless moments” as they treated him “at every stage of his illness.”

Jimmy Buffett survived at least 3 near-death experiences before his death at 76: ‘I’ve got to get up’

She also thanked his colleagues, noting that “they are the best, most honorable, most generous people, and we know how happy we were all these years.”

“You have made our lives better in thousands of ways, big and small, every day,” she wrote, adding that this “has been especially true these past few years” and “it has given me deep comfort to know that I can count on your loyalty, your honesty, and your respect. In return, you have earned ours.”

Thanking her “amazing friends”, Slagsvol wrote that they “expanded the meaning and depth of friendship”, adding “Jimmy made himself beautiful by telling you stories during the long dinners while the crickets sang” and “he loved to take his place at the head of the table, looking at people which he appreciated. You created a microclimate of love that surrounded us like the sun. She gave us hope; it felt like a celebration even when things were dark. Now it’s a balm for me.”

The Eagles perform a 2-song Jimmy Buffett Tribute at Madison Square Garden

Jimmy Buffett, Jane Slagsvol and daughter Sarah Buffett.

Presley Ann/Patrick McMullan/Getty

“Jimmy was love,” she continued. “Every cell in his body was filled with joy. He smiled all the time, even when he was deeply ill. And his sense of humor has not faltered. Jimmy was always an optimist, always winking, always making us laugh. To my family. I can’t begin to express what you mean to me and Jimmy. I appreciate you, I love you and I am immensely grateful to you every day. You are my heart.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories

“One of the last songs Jimmy recorded was ‘Bubbles Up,’” Slagsvol concluded. “He sings: ‘Just know that you are loved, there is light above, and joy is always enough. Bubbles.’ Jimmy knew he was loved. He was looking for light until the end. Thank you for cheering him and me up.”

Remembering Jimmy Buffett’s life in photos

Jimmy Buffett at the Broadway premiere of “Escape to Margaritaville.”

Noam Galai/Getty for Escape to Margaritaville

After Buffett passed away from Merkel skin cancer on September 1, several stars paid tribute, including Andy Cohen, Elton John and many more.

“He was everyone’s friend, and Paradise was wherever he was. Rest in peace, sweet Jimmy. ❤️☀️🌊 🦜 🍔,” Cohen (55) wrote on Instagram of his friend, who previously appeared on his Bravo program Watch what’s happening live.

On his Instagram Story, John, 76, remembers Buffett as a “unique and precious” musician.

“His fans adored him and he never let them down,” added the “Your Song” singer. “This is the saddest news. A wonderful man gone too soon. Condolences to Jane and family from David and myself.”

Buffett is survived by his wife Jane and children Savannah, Sarah and Cameron.

Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education