True story. I was up early on Saturday, preparing to head out of town. My phone buzzed — Mississippi’s own Jimmy Buffett had died. I was stunned; like most people, I didn’t even know he was ill. I immediately sat down and drew this cartoon in about 40 minutes.

It came from my heart.

I’ve been a fan of Buffett’s songs since high school and attended my first concert in 1985. When I hear his music, I think of my best friend, who went with me to many of those early concerts, and the good times we had. And I think that is one of the big reasons why Buffett is so beloved — his art takes us to a happier place. Everyone who knew Jimmy loved the guy. He definitely will be missed.

What a legacy he left behind, though.

Marshall Ramsey, a nationally recognized editorial cartoonist, shares his cartoons and travels the state as Mississippi Today’s Editor-At-Large. He’s also host of a weekly statewide radio program and a television program on Mississippi Public Broadcasting and is the author of several books. Marshall is a graduate of the University of Tennessee and a 2019 recipient of the University of Tennessee Alumni Professional Achievement Award.