Legendary jazz pianist and teacher Ellis Marsalis Jr (85) passed away on Wednesday due to complications of coronavirus, reported usatoday.com

“It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my father, Ellis Marsalis Jr.,” The Hindu reported quoting a statement of Ellis’ son Branford Marsali.

Branford informed that his father was admitted to hospital on Saturday.

“He was admitted to the hospital on Saturday and he died peacefully this evening,” Branford informed.

“My dad was a giant of a musician and teacher, but an even greater father. He poured everything he had into making us the best of what we could be,” Branford added.

“Ellis Marsalis was a legend. He was the prototype of what we mean when we talk about New Orleans jazz. The love and the prayers of all of our people go out to his family, and to all of those whose lives he touched,” tweeted New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell.