News

Jay DeMarcus’ Beloved Father, ‘Wayno,’ Dies

“Enjoy Heaven, you’ve earned it…”

Lauren Jo Black

| Posted on

October 29, 2020

1:00 pm

Jay DeMarcus and Father

Rascal Flatts’ bassist, Jay DeMarcus, is mourning the loss of his father.

DeMarcus took to social media to share the devastating news of his passing on Thursday (Oct. 29).

“I lost my musical hero and Father this morning,” DeMarcus wrote. “Known as ‘Wayno’ to most, he impacted everyone around him, and he was bigger than life to me. I could never explain in just a few words how important the musical bond was that we shared-it meant everything to me.”

He went on to praise his father for teaching him how to play and for always pushing him to do his best.

View this post on Instagram

I lost my musical hero and Father this morning. Known as “Wayno” to most, he impacted everyone around him, and he was bigger than life to me. I could never explain in just a few words how important the musical bond was that we shared-it meant everything to me. He taught me how to play, pushed me to be the best I could be, and I could not be more grateful for the time spent with him on the stage, and off. I have a lifetime of memories that will now be my comfort, as I face this life now without him. Rest In Peace my precious Dad, I was always proud to be called your son, and I will miss you forever. Enjoy Heaven, you’ve earned it…

A post shared by Jay DeMarcus (@jaydemarcus) on Oct 29, 2020 at 10:20am PDT

“I have a lifetime of memories that will now be my comfort, as I face this life now without him,” he continued. “Rest In Peace my precious Dad, I was always proud to be called your son, and I will miss you forever. Enjoy Heaven, you’ve earned it…”

Joe Don Rooney shared his condolences with his longtime bandmate, writing: “Praying hard for you and your family brother. So sorry for your loss. Loved Wayno dearly and enjoyed so many amazing talks w that man through the years… no doubt he was so extremely proud of you, 1,000%!!! Sending love & healing light yours and your family’s way.”

Our thoughts and prayers for with the DeMarcus family during this difficult time.

Written by

Lauren Jo Black

Lauren Jo Black, a University of Central Florida graduate, has immersed herself in the world of country music for over 15 years. In 2008, she co-founded CountryMusicIsLove, eventually selling it to a major record label in 2015. Following the rebranding of the website to Sounds Like Nashville, Black served as Editor-in-Chief for two and a half years. Currently, she assumes the role of Editor-in-Chief at Country Now and oversees Country Now’s content and digital footprint. Her extensive experience also encompasses her previous role as a Country Music Expert Writer for Answers.com and her work being featured on Forbes.com. She’s been spotlighted among Country Aircheck’s Women of Influence and received the 2012 Rising Star Award from the University of Central Florida. Black also spent time in front of the camera as host of Country Now Live, which brought live music directly to fans in 2021 when the majority of concerts were halted due to the pandemic. During this time, she hosted 24 weeks of live concerts via Country Now Live on Twitch with special guests such as Lady A, Dierks Bentley, Jordan Davis, Brett Young, and Jon Pardi. Over the course of her career, she has had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry’s most prominent stars, including Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, and many others. Lauren Jo Black is a longtime member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.