In January, the Neville family and loved ones announced a special concert event in Massachusetts.  “Celebrating Charles Neville” was an effort to rally support for the contemporary jazz luminary and saxophonist, who had recently announced a battle with pancreatic cancer. OffBeat is deeply saddened to report that Mr. Neville has succumbed to the illness and passed away. He was 79-years-old.

As reported by The Advocate’s Keith Spera, Aaron Neville confirmed his brother’s death to WWL-TV.

Further details have yet to be reported, but OffBeat.com will share details of any public funeral or event organized in his memory. With a career spanning six decades, his legacy will remain unquestioned. OffBeat sends its deepest condolences to the Neville family, and will carry the memory of Charles with us through the years.