Southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd lost one the two only survivors of the group following the 1977 plane crash which killed three of the original members. Keyboard player Billy Powell, who played on hits including “Sweet Home Alabama” and “Freebird,” died Wednesday in his Florida home of what is suspected to be a heart attack.

The 56-year-old keyboardist, who had a history of heart disease, called 911 at about 12:55 a.m. claiming he had trouble breathing. The rescue team that arrived at the scene tried to resuscitate the musician but unfortunately Powell couldn’t be saved and was pronounced dead at 1:52 a.m., according to Orange Park Police Lt. Mark Cornett. 

The cause of death has yet to be determined, but police believe it was heart-related, a police spokesperson said. Apparently, Powell was supposed to have a meeting with his heart specialist earlier this week but failed to show up, “The doctor said he had heart problems.”

A statement on the Lynyrd Skynyrd website confirmed the sad news pleading for privacy during this difficult time.

“Beloved pianist for the Lynyrd Skynyrd Band, Billy Powell, passed away last night. The family and band request your respect and understanding during this difficult time,” the statement read.

Powell, who joined the band in 1972 after working as their roadie, and founding guitarist Gary Rossington were the only two surviving band members aboard the 1977 plane crash that killed singer Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and backup vocalist Cassie Gaines. The band was formed in 1966 by a group of high school students in Jacksonville, Florida.

Ten years after the tragic plane crash, the band, including Powell, regrouped with a new line-up. Johnny Van Zant replaced his brother Donnie as lead singer.

While Lynyrd Skynyrd was inactive, Powell continued keeping busy by playing with a number of different groups, including his own, Alias. 

In the light of recent events, the future of the band, which is still a powerful concert draw, is uncertain. US shows on Friday and Saturday night have been cancelled, and no decision was made regarding the upcoming European tour scheduled for May and June. 

However it’s all up to Gary Rossington, who holds the rights to the Lynyrd Skynyrd name alongside Larkin Collins, father of original guitarist Allen Collins, and Judy Van Zant Jenness, widow of original lead singer Ronnie Van Zant. Collin said he expects a decision in three or four weeks.

“I can't say it's over,” he said. “It depends on Gary. As far as I'm concerned, if Gary wants to stay out on that stage, then we'll try to help him.”

Speaking of the future changes, the group’s co-manager said it was still too soon to discuss the impact of Powell’s death. Johnny Van Zant said the band has also recorded several songs for an upcoming album.