Deep Purple, the legendary British rock band, has announced the passing of Vicky Lord, the second wife of their late keyboardist, Jon Lord. According to a statement released on the band’s social media, Vicky Lord died at home on Tuesday after a short illness, surrounded by her family.
Vicky was a central figure in the Deep Purple family, and her connections ran deep within the band. She was the former girlfriend of Deep Purple bassist Glenn Hughes and the twin sister of Jacky Paice, who is married to Deep Purple drummer Ian Paice. Jacky Paice is also the founder of the charity Sunflower Jam. Both sisters were daughters of Frank Gibbs, the owner of the Oakley House Country Club in Brewood, South Staffordshire. Vicky and Jon Lord shared one daughter, Amy.
Jon Lord, a founding member of Deep Purple and a key innovator of the Hammond B-3 organ sound, died on July 16, 2012, at the age of 71 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. He was known for his significant songwriting contributions, including Deep Purple classics such as “Smoke on the Water” and “Child in Time.” Lord was one of the original members to remain with the band from its inception in 1968 until their initial split in 1976. He returned for the 1984 reunion and remained with Deep Purple until his retirement in 2002, after which he focused primarily on classical music.
Over the course of his career, Jon Lord also lent his talents to other notable acts, including the Artwoods, Flower Pot Men, Paice, Ashton and Lord, and Whitesnake. He also collaborated with his good friend and neighbor, George Harrison.
The statement from Deep Purple reflected the profound sense of loss felt by the entire band, their families, and friends: “Deep Purple are saddened to report that, after a short illness, Jon Lord‘s wife, Vicky Lord, passed away at home on Tuesday, surrounded by her family. She will be missed by her family, all the members of the band, and all those who knew her.”
