Please help bring Tennessee home and support his care. Joseph Bennett, known to so many as Tennessee, has been a beloved part of the music festival, traveling, and Grateful Dead community for more than 30 years. Many people have crossed paths with Tennessee somewhere along the road, in a campground, in a parking lot, or behind the scenes at a show. For the last two decades, Tennessee has worked as a stage rigger, helping build the stages and spaces where so many people came together for music and connection. But Tennessee has always been more than the work he did. He is a traveler, a guitar player, a father, and a true friend who has shared songs, stories, and kindness with people across the country.

Now Tennessee needs the support of our community. Tennessee has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, and doctors have found multiple tumors in his brain. His doctors have determined that surgery is not an option, and his time is very limited. After being hospitalized in Pennsylvania, Tennessee’s family is working urgently to bring him home to Florida so he can be surrounded by his son Ryder, his family, and the people who love him most. Funds raised will help with Tennessee’s care and comfort, transportation and the expenses of getting him home, immediate living expenses, final expenses, and helping provide stability for his family and young son during this incredibly difficult time.

Brandi, Tennessee’s sister, is asking Tennessee’s enormous extended family, including festival crews, musicians, travelers, Deadheads, old friends, new friends, and everyone whose path has crossed his, to help make these days as peaceful and worry-free as possible. If you are able, please donate and share this fundraiser. Every act of support will help lighten the burden on Tennessee’s family and remind him how deeply loved he is.