Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan, Rest In Peace.

Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan, Rest In Peace.

December 28, 2009, 9:34 pm
Filed under: Avenged Sevenfold, News

Im not entirely sure how to even start this. Unfortunately, the reports are true that Avenged Sevenfold drummer Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan has passed away. Forever in our hearts, you will never be forgotten. A message from the band can be read below:

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan. Jimmy was not only one of the world’s best drummers, but more importantly he was our best friend and brother. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jimmy’s family and we hope that you will respect their privacy during this difficult time.

Jimmy you are forever in our hearts.
We love you.

M Shadows, Synyster Gates, Zacky Vengeance and Johnny Christ

UPDATED NEWS:
– 12/29 The OC Register has updated saying as of today an autopsy is pending in the death of The Rev.
– 12/29 6:15PM PST / KTTV FOX 11 in Los Angeles is reporting that the autopsy on The Rev has come back inconclusive. Furthermore the band’s manager Larry Jacobson talks to FOX 11 in the article as well. Read some below and head here to read the entire article.

Huntington Beach – An autopsy Tuesday on Avenged Sevenfold drummer Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan was inconclusive as to the cause of the 28-year-old musician’s death. The Orange County coroner’s office ordered “toxicology, microscopic and laboratory tests” to help determine why Sullivan died, according to Jim Amormino, a spokesman for the Sheriff’s-Coroner’s office. It’s likely to take about weeks to get the results of those tests, officials said.

12/29 The Rev’s obituary written by Randy Lewis for the LA Times can be read here.

1/4/10 – A message from the Sullivan Family is posted.

1/6/10 – The Rev is laid to rest.

1/14/10 – Chris Epting from the Huntington Beach Independent wrote a beautiful piece detailing Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan’s vigil and funeral. You can read the entire article here

Avenged Sevenfold guitarist Brian Haner, a.k.a. Synyster Gates, delivered a soaring eulogy with focus and class. You look at him and the other young men in the band, M. Shadows, Zacky Vengeance and Johnny Christ, and wonder what they must be feeling — but in their eyes, you see the pain of their loss.

I will tell you here that besides their music, what I love about Avenged Sevenfold is that they choose to remain part of Huntington Beach. They could easily have left after hitting it big, but they didn’t. They bought homes here, they’re known around town, they hire their buddies as crew; they’re good guys. Rock stars? Whatever. They’re hard-working, successful young men who got where they are because they’re very good at what they do, and the city is better for having them here.

1/16/10 – A message from M. Shadows is posted along with an amazing tribute video from TwentyFourCore Productions.

1/19/10 – Benji Madden talks to Kerrang! about The Rev.

2/9-2/10 – Warner Brothers Records hangs In Memory banner in their lobby.

– Avenged Sevenfold fans hold candle-light vigil in Huntington Beach, Ca.

– Kerrang! pays tribute featuring fans and stars, Zacky Vengeance speaks out.

– Chris Epting posts the feature “A Farewell From The Rev”:

“I hope you’ll find your own way when I’m not with you.”
The lyrics jump out to the listener. The sparse, haunting, discordant ballad, consisting only of Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan on piano, drums and vocal, fills the room — the same room where, last May, my teenage son and I visited with Joe and Barbara Sullivan, parents of the drummer from Avenged Sevenfold. We were there for a column I was writing about how proud the parents were of their son’s success.

The song continues, and it is stunning; introspective, moody — no formal lyrics for the most part. Instead, what appears to be a “guide vocal,” random words serving as placeholders for what will be written later. But the line appears again, slightly revised, “I think you’ll find your own way when I’m not with you.” Here in the same room where, in January, I watched the band members comfort the family after Jimmy’s funeral. The same room where a little boy named Jimmy Sullivan grew into a big drummer. The song ends with, “I know you’ll find your own way when I’m not with you.” These are some of the last words recorded by the Rev, just weeks before his death.

– Avenged Sevenfold announce they will head into the studio with Dream Theater’s Mike Portnoy. Mike then releases his own statement.

– Hawthorne Heights’ JT Woodruff pays tribute with song “Friends In The Sky.” Lyrics can be found here.

– Mike Portnoy finishes drum tracking and Zacky Vengeance sends an update from the studio.

– Bullet For My Valentine’s Matt Tuck speaks out about The Rev.

– Revolver Magazine sets up “Remembering The Rev” feature which included statements from: Branden Schieppati (Bleeding Through), James Hart (Ex-Eighteen Visions/Burn Halo), Vinnie Paul (Ex-Pantera/HELLYEAH), Bobby Alt (Street Drum Corps), Xavier Muriel (Buckcherry), Barry Kerch (Shinedown), Mick Morris (Ex-Eighteen Visions), Cove Reber & Chris Sorenson (Saosin), Brian Fair & Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall), and Chris Jericho (WWE/Fozzy).

– M Shadows speaks out in May 2010 issue of Guitar World.

– Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan is awarded “Best Drummer” at 2010 Revolver Golden Gods Awards. Zacky Vengeance speaks out about his win.

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In this heartbreaking time, tons of friends, family, musicians have commented via Twitter and their blogs with their support. Everything can be found below. A huge thank you goes out to my great friend Jessica M for putting all this together!

TWITTER/FACEBOOK:
Slash Hudson– Really sad news, Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan has died. This is a tragic turn of events, he will be mourned by many….
Puddle Of Mudd – We are truly saddened by the loss of the Rev. What an amazing drummer. Our condolences go out to the band, their fans, their friends, and of course their families. R.I.P.
Clint Lowery (Sevendust) – My heart goes out the family of Jimmy “the rev”!! I didn’t know him but was a big fan of his in particular. Very sad
Chris Daughtry (American Idol) – People are dying far too young these days…very sad news about “The Rev”
Shinedown – Our hearts go out to our brothers in A7X .We lost a great man yesterday . .There are no words to explain what we lost exactly. R.I.P- Rev
Brent Smith (Shinedown) – All of my love goes out to everyone in A7X. Jimmy you will never be forgotten.
Zach Meyers (Shinedown) – Rest in Peace to “The Rev” . Jimmy was one of the coolest mother fuckers Ive ever met. . and the best late night Texter ever. . Your Missed
Rev Theory – We lost a great drummer yesterday in James “The Rev” Sullivan. We had the honor and privilege to tour with Avenged Sevenfold this past year and it was one the best tours we have ever been on. He will be greatly missed.
Ben Baller – I feel like really canceling my trip 2moro night. I don’t feel like doin shit really. this year is fucking lamer then lame. #RIP Rev #RIP AM
Alicia Way – What terrible news. I wish I could explain how much you will be missed Jimmy. RIP my buddy… Xoxoxo
Josh Madden – Another Angel…Thinking of the friends that left this year, It’s always the right time to say I love you.
David Cook (American Idol) – Thoughts to friends and famIly of The Rev, drummer for Avenged Sevenfold. Dead at 28. Sad news
Andrew Stricko (Faber Drive) – rip jimmy ‘the rev’ sullivan. i can’t believe you’re gone, you were and continue to be a huge inspiration. listen to avenged sevenfold.
Vicky T (Cobra Starship) – #RIPtherev @diegoschokehold I did not know until now. that’s terrible. Why are so many people dying this year? so sad.
Andy Skib (To Have Heroes) – Listening loudly to @TheOfficialA7X tonight. Amazing drummer, sad to hear the news.
Thrice – My thoughts are with our former label mates @ Hopeless Records, Avenged Sevenfold, and the friends & family of Jimmy Sullivan. -riley
Audrina Patridge (The Hills) – rip jiimmy from avenged sevenfold:(:( he was an amazing drummer and a fun person to be around!
Kara Monaco – No Jimmy Sullivan died!!! Why? :( Such a badass drummer. So sad.
Grant Cobb (Tattoo Artist) – Fuck you death, I don’t remember the last time someone died i hated. You keep taking people I care about! Gonna miss you J, RIP.
Corey Bohan (BMX) – RT @OfficialAudrina: rip jiimmy from avenged sevenfold:(:( he was an amazing drummer and a fun person to be around!
Brian Haner Sr – Cried all night. I am heartbroken. Jimmy is gone and my world is a sadder place.
Jay E Beats – REST IN PEACE JIMMY “THE REV” SULLIVAN…. So sad right now 2010 get here faster
Glamour Of The Kill – RIP Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan.
Porter McKnight (Atreyu) – So terribly sorry to hear about The Revs passing, my best to a7x and their families.
Dan Jacobs (Atreyu) – wow… RIP Rev…. speechless
Travis Miguel – Thoughts, prayers, and condolences to A7X and their camp. My heart goes out to them.
Story Of The Year – Sad sad day. My heart goes out to the A7X family. What a tragedy. -Ryan
Escape The Fate – R.I.P A7X drummer Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan – Our hearts go out to A7X, and their family
Tony Lovato (Mest) – RIP friend..
Joel Madden (Good Charlotte) – I’m deeply saddened by the loss of our friend. I’m off twitter for the rest of the year. My prayers go out to Jimmy’s family tonight.
Mike Lewis (Lostprophets) – Just found out a great guy passed away. Very sad. My thoughts go out
Tal Cooperman (DCMA Collective) – I woke up this morning praying that I just had a bad dream! I lost a friend and most of all a brother. Jimmy you will be missed forever! :(
Beau Bokan (Blessthefall) – #riprev
The Used – James Owen Sullivan you will be missed. Our thoughts go out to your family and friends. You are a great drummer, musician and you were taken from us way too soon. There’s not much more we can say other then we love you. THE USED
Papa Roach – This is a sad day for Rock And Roll. RIP Jimmy “Rev” Sullivan. You will be greatly missed, my friend.
Buckcherry – The Rev… You will be missed. Rest in peace our brother from the road. The entire A7X family is in our thoughts.
Katie Gilbert (Gods Girls) – @JoelMadden life takes from us the things we <3 robs us of the special 1s puts them high where we can’t climb we only miss them all the time
Sarah Madden – Just heard the news about the passing of the drummer from Avenged Sevenfold. My prayers & heart go out to his family & friends.
Billy Martin (Good Charlotte) – Woke up to the sad news. You will be missed Jimmy.
Frank Iero (My Chemical Romance) – fuck i just heard…im at a loss. rest in peace rev, you will be missed.
Mick Morris (ex-Eighteen Visions) – R.I.P. Jimmy Sullivan (The Rev)… such an amazing person and drummer. i spent many amazing times and played some incredible shows with him.
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Jamie Oliver (Lostprophets) – I have lost a very good friend, have shared so many good times with Jimmy(The rev)A7X. The nicest guy.the world seems a little dimmer today
Baltimore’s 98 Rock – And YES RIP the REV. We are very lucky to be good friends with A7X and give our love to the rest of the band during this time.
Stryker (LA KROQ) – I am so sad to hear about the REV. Such a nice, great and generous guy towards me. My condolences to the Avenged family & his family.
Jamey Jasta/Hatebreed – R.I.P. Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan. Thoughts and prayers to his band, friends and family. He’ll be missed http://tweetphoto.com/7513849
Rev Run (Run DMC) – RIP James (The Rev) Sullivan member of Avenged Sevenfold Band. My deepest condolences to family friends & fans
Revok – Revok1.com: REST IN PEACE JIMMY “THE REV” SULLIVAN
Alex Deleon (The Cab) – @xoanasullivan i know. met him when i was 13. he gave me his drumsticks and talked to me for awhile. such a nice guy. he will be missed.
Bullets And Octane – JIMMY “THE REV” SULLIVAN (drummer of Avenged Sevenfold has passed away at aged 28) our thoughts are with you and the family.
Christine Dolce (Model) – http://twitpic.com/vp4na – RIP Jimmy “The Rev”……..
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Dan Smith (The Dear & Departed) – Love to the Sullivan family and A7X family through this unexpected time. Rest well Jimmy. You were one of a kind. xoxo
K Thrash – RIP: James ‘The Rev’ Sullivan, 1981-2009
LoveHateHero – R.I.P. Jimmy ‘The Rev’ Sullivan. You were an inspiration to me -Scott
Lee Gaze (Lostprophets) – R.I.P The Rev. An awesome drummer and a good dude. X
JT (Hawthorne Heights) – RIP, The Rev. My heart goes out to his family and all of the A7X family. A legend gone too young…
Rise Against – Jim “The Rev” Sullivan has passed away. Words cannot describe what a tragedy this is. Our hearts go out to our friends in A7X.
Drowning Pool – Our Hearts and Respect go out to Jimmy The REV Sullivan and the Avenged Family. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Throwdown – Too many people have died way too young this year. RIP Jimmy Sullivan from Avenged Sevenfold and Robert Birmingham.
Metal Hammer – “Metal Hammer’s thoughts go out to The Rev’s friends and family.”
Revolver Mag – Avenged Sevenfold drummer The Rev found dead. R.I.P.
Schecter Guitars – We send out our prayers to friends and Family of James “The Rev.” Sullivan. You will be missed.
Jeff Watson (My Chemical Romance) – Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan. Born February 10, 1981. Died December 28, 2009. Rest In Peace.
Matt Tuck (Bullet For My Valentine) – I can’t believe ‘The Rev’ is dead. ):
Nasty (Falling In Reverse) – This is truely a sad day for music. My heart goes out to Avenged Sevenfold and the family and friends of JIMMY “THE REV” SULLIVAN
Joey Roxx (Burn Halo) – rip Jimmy the rev :( gonna miss you brother
Zakk Sandler (Black Tide) – My prayers to James “the rev” Sullivans family and to our friends in Avenged Sevenfold. The Rev was amazing and will be missed.
Black Tide – For those that haven’t heard, the Rev from A7X passed away… one of the best of our time. RIP Jimmy… We will always remember you. -Steven
Ernie Ball – RIP Avenged Sevenfold drummer – James “The Rev” Sullivan!!! You will be missed!!!
Brian Fair (Shadows Fall) – Rest In Peace Rev. No one threw it down quite like you did. You will be missed.
Jeremy Saffer (Photographer) – Very sad to hear of the passing of Avenged Sevenfold drummer The Rev. my thoughts go out to the A7X fam, friends, crew. RIP. :(
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Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society) – GOD BLESS the Rev & His Family …. He’s Rollin w/ Dime RR N CO. in GODS TAVERN tSDMFt http://twitgoo.com/ar3u9
Paolo Gregoletto (Trivium) – Really bummed reading about the drummer of A7x. Although I didn’t know him well, he was always cool when we ran into them at fests or shows.
Shanna Crooks (Country Musician) – #RIPtherev So sad. Incredible musician, writer, and genuinely nice person. Ughhhhh…. ;o(
Nixon (Framing Hanley) – Another amazing musician gone this year. The Rev was one of the best drummers in this industry and a great singer. RIP
Larry Jacobson (The Collective) – I hope I am able to comfort them. But I am grateful for how much comfort they bring to me.
Jacky Vincent (Falling In Reverse) – Goodbye Jimmy i wish i could of met you one day. I cant believe your gone. You were the best =( <3
Mike Mizanin (Wrestler) – Just heard the rev, drummer of avenged sevenfold died. I’ve seen them in concert twice n were amazing. Rip give em hell up there.
Derek Lee (Melee/Suburban Legends) – RIP Jimmy Sullivan :(
The Veer Union – RIP to The Rev of A7X… sad sad news.
Chuck Comeau (Simple Plan) – So sad what happened to the drummer of Avenged Sevenfold…only met those guys briefly but they were so nice to us. RIP.
Maika Maile (There For Tomorrow) – RT @hopelessrecords: Very sad news today. RIP James Owen Sullivan. Our thoughts are with the entire Avenged Sevenfold family
Hopeless Records – Very sad news today. RIP James Owen Sullivan. Our thoughts are with the entire Avenged Sevenfold family
Spencer Peterson – #RIPtherev didn’t know him personally, but def an OG face melter. bummer
Anarbor – lost a member of the @HopelessRecords family RT: Very sad news today. RIP James Owen Sullivan.Our thoughts are with AvengedSevenfolds family
Panima – R.I.P. Jimmy Sullivan aka “The Rev”
Anthony Martone (Ex-Versaemerge) – The drummer of avenged sevenfold died… He used to be my favorite drummer when I was like 15.
Vincent Walker (Suburban Legends) – RIP James Owen Sullivan
Jared Watson (The Dirty Heads) – lost a brother and a best friend, cannot explain the saddness i have right now, im gonna miss the shit out of you, always and forever in my heart. r.i.p. jimmy. i love you
Matt Ochoa (The Dirty Heads) – R.I.P The Rev…
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Benjamin Madden (Good Charlotte) – I took you for granted Rev. I was lucky to know you and I’m lucky to have the memories I have w/you. Rest in Peace my friend. Happy NewYear
Danny Hitzelberger (One Night Stand) – OH MY GOD! THE REV HAS DIED!!! RIP JIMMY! YOU WERE ONE OF THE GREATEST!!! WHAT THE FUCK IS HAPPENING IN THIS WORLD?! …And A Happy New Year! RIP JIMMY!!
Jt Woodruff (Hawthorne Heights) – “if there’s a kick drum in the sky, the rev is there keepin’ metal alive…and I, oh I don’t have to cry” / @deathbatnews such a sad day for the music world. Great person and musician will be missed by many. My heart goes out to everyone he touched
Tony Lovato (Mest/Kisses For Kings) – Happy new year to my friends and family. Miss you Rev. We were together this time 3 years ago.Dad said we’ll all be together again someday.
Pride Clothing – Jimmy Sullivan was 1of the greatest drummers alive & I had the pleasure of witnessing that 4ft behind him a couple times.. he will be missed
Zacky Vengeance (Avenged Sevenfold/Vengeance University) – Jimmy will always be with me in everything I do. Except sitting at home being sad, so today Im going to try to start living again. foREVer

BLOGS:
– Brian Haner Sr
– Shockhound
– Fans that are putting a scrapbook together
– Sabian Symbols
– Cobra Cocktail to write and dedicate song to The Rev
– Promark Drumsticks Posts “In Memory Of The Rev” blog
– Cam Rackam posts In Loving Memory blog.
– Good Charlotte posted a R.I.P. Our Friend Jimmy. We will miss you. blog.
– DCMA post In Loving Memory Of Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan blog.
– DW Drums post DW Says Goodbye to a Family Member: Jimmy “The Rev” Sullivan Passes On blog.
– The Dirty Heads post very sad day RIP JIMMY THE REV SULLIVAN blog.

Thank you to TwentyFourCore for the picture.

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