Former Monkee Davy Jones dead at 66

Sad news in the entertainment world today. Former Monkee Davy Jones has died. EMTs were called to his Indiantown, Florida ranch where he was complaining of not feeling well and having trouble breathing. He was rushed to Martin Memorial South Hospital in Hobe Sound where he was pronounced dead of an apparent heart attack. 

RIP
David Thomas "Davy" Jones
 December 30, 1945 – February 29, 2012

Jones had lived in the South Florida area for a number of years and raised race horses. He had married Jessica Pacheco in 2009. Jones is survived by his wife and four daughters from previous marriages.

Davy and his wife, Jessica

The Monkees clockwise from top left...Nesmith, Dolenz, Tork, and Jones

Jones joined The Monkees in 1965 and he and castmates Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith and Peter Tork played faux band members in a rock and roll band that were always trying to break into the big time. They had a successful television sitcom series that lasted for two seasons from 1966-1968. The members did not play the instruments on their recordings * (they did for the most part in concert)  but did sing, releasing several international hits still heard on oldies radio stations today. These included Last Train to Clarksville, I'm A Believer, Pleasant Valley Sunday, and Daydream Believer. Their hits sold over 65 million records worldwide.

*(Studio session musicians from the Wrecking Crew performed the actual music on the recordings.)

In addition to recording and touring as a solo artist after The Monkees went off the air Jones found time to appear on other television shows including The Brady Bunch.

Upon learning of the passing of Jones, Dolenz released a statement saying, "Can't believe it...Still in shock...had bad dreams all night long." He added, "My love and prayers go out to Davy's girls and family right now."

Monkees bassist Peter Tork also released a statement about Jones which reads: "It is with great sadness that I reflect on the sudden passing of my long-time friend and fellow-adventurer, David Jones. His talent will be much missed; his gifts will be with us always. My deepest sympathy to Jessica and the rest of his family."