Judith Durham, Lead Singer Of The Seekers, Passes At 79

Daniel Mitchell-Benoit
Judith Durham, former Seekers singer and patron of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, 19 April 2010. THE AGE.
Getty | Wayne Taylor

Lead singer of The Seekers, Australian '90s pop group that found big success across the seas in both the UK and the US, has passed away.

Judith Durham leaves behind an incredible legacy of music, joy, and artistry that has been admired the world over, and will continue to be for decades to come. She is remembered by family, friends, and business partners.

The lead singer of Australian band The Seekers, Judith Durham, has died.

Judith in a black top with her hands clasped together, looking up and to the left.
Facebook | Judith Durham Official

Responsible for hits such as 'Georgy Girl' and 'I'll Never Find Another You', that band had to bid farewell to its lead vocalist. According to a statement from Universal Music, Durham "passed away peacefully" in palliative care.

They also said her death was related to complications from chronic lung disease.

Her friends are already honoring her legacy.

A young Judith in a recording booth, smiling with her hands toughing her headphones.
Facebook | Judith Durham Official

Fellow bandmate Athol Guy also released a statement that reads, "Our lives are changed forever losing our treasured lifelong friend and shining star. Her struggle was intense and heroic – never complaining of her destiny and fully accepting its conclusion. Her magnificent musical legacy Keith, Bruce and I are so blessed to share."

As is her family.

Judith in a blue blouse and black skirt, smiling with her arms outstretched.
Facebook | Judith Durham Official

Sister Beverly Sheehan wrote, "Judith's joy for life, her constant optimism, creativity and generosity of spirit were always an inspiration to me."

Durham's nephew, Tony Sheehan, wrote on behalf of himself, his brother Ben, and sister Belinda, "We have been blessed to share our lives with her."

Even music industry moguls.

Judith Durham, former Seekers singer and patron of the Motor Neurone Disease Association, 19 April 2010. THE AGE.
Getty | Wayne Taylor

Cyrus Meher-Homji, a senior vice president at Universal Music Australia and New Zealand, reminisced on signing Durham to the label, "[...] Judith wrote of her happiness, knowing that 'the Universal/Decca family now also hold on to my dream and mission to uplift and bring happiness to music fans around the world.'"

"High above, the dawn awaits you, Judith. Your artistry will forever be enshrined in our souls."

h/t: Honey Celebrity