We got a nice note from Allen Mills of The Lost & Found this morning. He wanted to pass along some words of thanks to the many folks who expressed their grief over the untimely death of Dempsey Young on December 10, 2006, and share some news on the band’s first few shows without him.

Dempsey was the original and only mandolinist the band had ever known, and had been a member since 1973 when the band was formed.

“Dempsey’s wife Lynette and the Lost and Found family would like to thank everyone who came to the visitation and funeral. The condolences sent via our website, the newspaper, the calls, cards and flowers were all GREATLY appreciated. The memorial fund is growing and will support their children’s future and education.

Although it has been hard, the band has performed five show in January with Scott Napier helping out on mandolin. Scott played several years with Larry Sparks and is currently working with Marty Raybon, but had some time off. He did a fantastic job with us and we sincerely appreciate his help.

We also appreciate our fans’ and promoters’ support during this transition phase for the Lost and Found. Please continue to keep us in your prayers!”

The Dempsey Young Memorial Fund is still accepting donations, and Allen also wanted to thank the many members of the bluegrass community, both industry professionals and devoted fans, who have given generously for the benefit of Dempsey’s family.

Anyone who would like to make a contribution can send a check to:

There is a nice remembrance of Dempsey Young in today’s edition of The Roanoke Times. Allen Mills reflects briefly on missing his friend, and Herschel Sizemore comments on Dempsey’s unique approach to the mandolin.

Read the article on The Roanoke Times web site, where Dempsey’s obituary can also be found.

Allen Mills of The Lost & Found asked that we post this for him, in response to the many folks who have expressed condolences regarding the death on Sunday morning of their dear friend and bandmate, Dempsey Young.

The out-pouring of love - the calls, emails, thoughts and prayers from our friends and fans has been absolutely overwhelming. We sincerely appreciate everyone and everything, for accepting and enjoying our 33 years of music together. Our fans and our God will determine our future…continue to keep us in your prayers.

The Lost & Found Band
Allen Mills, Scottie Sparks, Ronald Smith and Jerry Williamson
The Young Family

In our earlier post about the untimely passing of Dempsey Young, I made reference to a fund being established for the benefit of his family. That fund is now in place, and contributions can be sent to:

Dempsey is survived by his wife Lynette, daughters Stephanie and Demetra living at home, and son Christopher (USAF), stationed in Qatar. The memorial fund is to assist Lynette and the children, particularly with education expenses.

He also leaves 3 brothers, Steve, Randy and Scott all of Wirtz, VA and several extended family members. His band family consists of Allen Mills, business partner for over 33 years, Scottie Sparks and Ronald Smith.

Condolences can be sent to:

…or:

We will post about funeral arrangements as soon as we receive the information, hopefully later this afternoon.

UPDATE 4:10 p.m. Here is the information about Dempsey’s funeral arrangements, for any of his fans and friends who may wish to visit with the family to mark his passing.

We are deeply saddened to share the news that Dempsey Young, an original member of The Lost & Found, passed away early this morning.

His unique mandolin style and quick smile were as much a part of the band as Allen Mills’ distinctive voice. Allen and Dempsey kept Lost & Found on the road together with myriad personnel changes since they formed the group in 1973.

Dempsey will be missed by his family and a great many friends in bluegrass music.

We will post with details about arrangements as soon as we obtain them.

UPDATE 12/11: Debbie Mills is setting up a trust account today for the benefit of Dempsey’s children. She said that they have been getting calls from all over the country from kind hearted folks who would like to be of assistance.

We will update with details about how contributions can be made as soon as the account is established.