DVD Talk Forum - Leonard Skinner passes away at 77.

Jacksonville, FL, - Leonard Skinner, the anti-long hair gym teacher who was the muse for the name of the legendary southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd has died, according to reports. The band posted the announcement on their web site, stating Skinner, 77, passed away in his sleep Monday morning.

Gary Rossington, guitarist and founding member of the band, said Skinner had a great impact on the members of the band when they were in high school - which ultimately led to them naming the group after him using a variation of his name.

According to accounts, Skinner was a coach and gym teacher at Robert E. Lee High School in Jacksonville, Florida, and was vehemently against long hair. Skinner sent numerous students to the principal’s office for violating the policy, including future members of the band, reports stated.

The band was formed in the early 1970s and had many hits including “Freebird” and “Sweet Home Alabama.”

A plane crash in Mississippi in 1977 claimed the lives of lead singer Ronnie Van Zant; guitarist Steve Gaines; Gaines's sister, vocalist Cassie Gaines; an assistant road manager; and the pilot and copilot.