Herbert Worthington has passed away

[CADreaming]

http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_l8a3sp9M3d1qcaugio1_500.jpg

Sad news. What a wonderful photographer.

Condolences to all who knew and loved him.

*It was posted on Jessi's facebook page.

[iamnotafraid]

That's terrible to hear.

Just recently I was thinking about which
of his photos of Stevie to remove from one
of my rooms. They're great, but I'm just
tired of them. Decisions...

I believe he emailed me a time or two. He
seemed like a nice fellow. He certainly had
talent.

[melaboo]

Is this true? if so very sad. A very talented man and lovely to deal with. bought photos from him over the years and he was a great guy.

[StreetAngel86]

his photos are/were awesome.
some of the best of Stevie :thumbsup:

RIP Herbert.

[Phoenix]

It is sad news, prayers for his family and those who love him.

[Sanne2]

RIP Herbie, thanks for the amazing photos.

[madeline]

Well this is my experience with Herbie. My son Sean asked me what I wanted for Christmas, I told him I wanted the 2008 Stevie calendar. I had the 2007 and he had already put out 08 and 09 calendars. I figured I would get 08 and then get 09 later on. So he sent the money but I didn't get the calendar. He e-mailed us and said he was spending the holidays with Stevie and her family and would get it out as soon as he got back. I still didn't get the calendar. So I told Sean I would e-mail him one more time and then I'm done with it. Well he had sent the calendar but i didn't know that he had sent it. So he e-mailed me back and super apologized for the mess and not only sent me the 08 calendar we paid for but also sent me an 09 calendar for free. So I didn't get it for christmas but I was super happy to get both like that. It was very sweet of him to do that for me.

[WildHearted]

Thanks for the photos, Herbie. Rest in peace.

[The Catdancer]

RIP Herbert. Thanks for your amazing work.

[SpyNote]

Can someone post the news source link? Something this serious deserves an official confirmation. Thanks.

[CADreaming]

Can someone post the news source link? Something this serious deserves an official confirmation. Thanks.

As far as I know there are just the facebook comments on Jessi's page:

Nixi Nicks: Well, lost another good one. At this point I don't know how death still gets to me. A man who was very close to me, my family, my father, passed away. He was family. I love you, Herby. You will be in my prayers.

Lori Nicks: It was a tough one, my angel... I'm sorry for you and your dad, especially... but at least we have his legacy.... beautiful photos to remember him by.. God bless you, Herbie....

Mary Torrey-DeVitto: Wow, I just can't believe it…Yes he will be remembered. Love you Herbie, Rest in Peace, my Friend...

[Richard B]

Oh no....how sad. He will be missed. I was lucky to have hung out with him many years ago. Such a great guy and a great photographer! Will always appreciate his work and may he rest in peace.

[Macfanforever]

I'm so sad to hear this news.Rest in peace Herbie.I love your photography.

[Macfanforever]

I found this on the Fleetwood Mac News site.

http://www.fleetwoodmacnews.com/2013/11/iconic-fleetwood-mac-stevie-nicks.html

[SpyNote]

I found this on the Fleetwood Mac News site.

http://www.fleetwoodmacnews.com/2013/11/iconic-fleetwood-mac-stevie-nicks.html

This is just a fan site (Peter's) just like mine. He trolls the web and Google Alerts for information just like me. Really, we're not as special as we like to think we are. :lol:

We really need someone more official (a major outlet, at the very least) to speak on behalf of someone's death, especially when they're this close to the band and the many fans who have met Herbie in person.

[CADreaming]

This is just a fan site (Peter's) just like mine. He trolls the web and Google Alerts for information just like me. Really, we're not as special as we like to think we are. :lol:

We really need someone more official (a major outlet, at the very least) to speak on behalf of someone's death, especially when they're this close to the band and the many fans who have met Herbie in person.

No offense, but are Jessi, Lori and Mary, Ken & Tai (she tweeted earlier) not official enough? To me, they are more official than any so called news source, which typically get their info now from social media anyway. Shrug. I think all of you guys do a pretty great job of keeping us informed and in the loop. Peter did break the news about John after all.

[SpyNote]

No offense, but are Jessi, Lori and Mary, Ken & Tai (she tweeted earlier) not official enough? To me, they are more official than any so called news source, which typically get their info now from social media anyway. Shrug. I think all of you guys do a pretty great job of keeping us informed and in the loop. Peter did break the news about John after all.

I mean an official statement, not piecing together various reactions from an initially semi-private conversation, which is how people found out.

Actually, Fleetwood Mac's official FB page broke the news about John's cancer, at least that's what was reported here.

Like I said before, fan sites troll the web for information, just like bots. We should NOT be treated like we're the official sites. That honor should have gone to The Penguin many years ago.

[michelej1]

It's not even clear there's ever going to be an "official statement" about this passing. So, since the validity of the fact seems clear, it's good that there's a n outlet for spreading the word to people who would like to know. Michele

[SpyNote]

It's not even clear there's ever going to be an "official statement" about this passing. So, since the validity of the fact seems clear, it's good that there's a n outlet for spreading the word to people who would like to know. Michele

I don't mean a statement just saying: "Herbert Worthington is dead." I mean something that just acknowledges his passing, his work (particularly with Rumours), and maybe a few words about his life, more or less a public eulogy that gets issued as an official statement. Hopefully a few mainstream music writers will write about him. I think his contributions warrant at least that.

[CADreaming]

Actually, Fleetwood Mac's official FB page broke the news about John's cancer, at least that's what was reported here.

.

I don't know. I just know I read it on FM news & reviews fb feed way before here. Maybe he got the info from their site but that would be a first. (Lol)

I understand your point though.

[SpyNote]

I don't know. I just know I read it on FM news & reviews fb feed way before here. Maybe he got the info from their site but that would be a first. (Lol)

I understand your point though.

The FM Facebook post is what caused all the confusion. They reported the news before the tour had ended and then removed it and then reposted it later.

[Macfanforever]

This is just a fan site (Peter's) just like mine. He trolls the web and Google Alerts for information just like me. Really, we're not as special as we like to think we are. :lol:

We really need someone more official (a major outlet, at the very least) to speak on behalf of someone's death, especially when they're this close to the band and the many fans who have met Herbie in person.

OK I forgot about that was Pete's site.Stevie probably make a statement about Herbie in time.

[KarmaContestant]

Aw...sad day. Rest in peace, Herbie.

[Ghost_Tracker]

I initially posted that I feel people should "use caution" about donating for funeral expenses since there's so many con artists hovering around waiting to swoop in - however - For whatever it's worth, somebody named Beverly Worthington has a Facebook account - https://www.facebook.com/bevworthington/ - this presumably is his sister - there is at least one photo of her with someone who is clearly Herbert W. III - on her page, it can be seen that under the "About" section of her page, Bobby Del Bostwick - her son, is listed - he is the cousin that is asking for donations to help raise money for the funeral expenses and so that he and his son can fly out to help with the arrangements. (The photo on his Facebook matches the one on the donations site.)
So I feel reasonably certain that the request for financial help that he posted on Fleetwood Mac News is legit.

Kudos to Dark Angel/Lisa from The Ledge for digging all that up.

(https://www.facebook.com/bobby.bostwick)

To try to be more clear: There is what appears to be a legitimate request from the family to help with the final arrangements for Herbert Worthington III. They're having trouble and are asking for help from the FM fan community. Looking into the details appears to confirm that this is a 100% legitimate request. The details of their request, relayed by his cousin Bobby Bostwick, can be found on the Fleetwood Mac News website.

P.S. - The photo, apparently, is of Beverly and Herbert Worthington "back in the day," and I believe the boy may be Bobby del Bostwick. That's from Beverly Worthington's Facebook page.

[BlueDenimLamp]

A little side issue I feel is necessary to mention -

I'd like to urge caution when it comes to donating to his supposed relatives for the funeral expenses, etc. until we have confirmation of who they really are. I'd hate to say or do anything that would prevent the right people from receiving money for something they may genuinely and legitimately need help with, but we all know that there's vultures circling the online FM fan community just waiting to swoop in and take advantage of things like this. I'm just suggesting a bit of "wise caution," that's all.

Is this a hypothetical scenario or this actually happening??? :confused:

[SpyNote]

Is this a hypothetical scenario or this actually happening??? :confused:

Yeah, it's very sketchy. The least that the person should do is provide some credible information about the wake and burial service. Where's the obituary? All of this is being handled very poorly.

[CADreaming]

Yeah, it's very sketchy. The least that the person should do is provide some credible information about the wake and burial service. Where's the obituary? All of this is being handled very poorly.

I think that's the point - there was no one to handle it. Very sad. I would imagine there is no obit because there is no money to pay a funeral home who handles that - and they charge extra for that too if you want it in a big paper and not just the standard notice.

I have family members who will be in the same situation one day with no life insurance to cover funeral costs and no family who can cough it up.

[Ghost_Tracker]

Is this a hypothetical scenario or this actually happening??? :confused:

Hypothetical - However I've completely changed my post because it turns out that there is convincing proof that it's a legitimate request for help, from Herbert W.'s cousin. Please see my edited post for that.

[SpyNote]

I think that's the point - there was no one to handle it. Very sad. I would imagine there is no obit because there is no money to pay a funeral home who handles that.

I have family members who will be in the same situation one day with no life insurance to cover funeral costs and no family who can cough it up.

I don't know. Herbie was not a poor man, nor did he seem like someone who wouldn't help his family out financially. I just hope people won't start blinding giving to someone without having all the facts (and piecing together things found on Facebook is not sufficient).

[CADreaming]

I don't know. Herbie was not a poor man, nor did he seem like someone who wouldn't help his family out financially. I just hope people won't start blinding giving to someone without having all the facts.

Oh ok. I was reading things that suggested he was in a bind.

[SpyNote]

Oh ok. I was reading things that suggested he was in a bind.

I don't know who this person on FB is, but I know that Herbie received commercial royalties from his photos that were used for Rumours, Bella Donna, The Wild Heart, TVBOFM, Crystal Visions, etc. He was not in dire financial straits. Unless he specified someone specific in his will, that money's going to family.

[CADreaming]

Here's a news report:

Found Dead in his South Pasadena Home

By Bill Glazier Review Editor
Published: November 13, 2013 05:39:50 PM
Herbert W. Worthington III, iconic Fleetwood Mac photographer who made his home in South Pasadena, has passed away.

South Pasadena police entered his home in the 600 block of Prospect Avenue on Sunday afternoon to discover Worthington’s body. Sources are saying Worthington could have been dead for several days.

Worthington’s photos of the famed group were admired by millions of fans worldwide over the years.

Many commented on his website, recognizing the legend for his contributions to the band. He was revered for his pictures of Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham.

“Rest in peace Mr. Worthington,” wrote one anonymous fan. “Thank you for your beautiful work.”

Lorenzini Coleman added, “Amazing photographer. You left an amazing trail of awesomeness!”

Contributed Diane Marie, “Very sad news, indeed. Thank you for every captured moment. Thank heavens you were there.”

Sub-Headline : Found Dead in his South Pasadena Home
ByLine : By Bill Glazier Review Editor

http://south.pasadenanow.com/fleetwood-mac-photographer-remembered/

[michelej1]

^Well, that's sobering.

Michele

[BlueDenimLamp]

Here's a news report:

Found Dead in his South Pasadena Home

By Bill Glazier Review Editor
Published: November 13, 2013 05:39:50 PM
Herbert W. Worthington III, iconic Fleetwood Mac photographer who made his home in South Pasadena, has passed away.

South Pasadena police entered his home in the 600 block of Prospect Avenue on Sunday afternoon to discover Worthington’s body. Sources are saying Worthington could have been dead for several days.

Worthington’s photos of the famed group were admired by millions of fans worldwide over the years.

Many commented on his website, recognizing the legend for his contributions to the band. He was revered for his pictures of Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham.

“Rest in peace Mr. Worthington,” wrote one anonymous fan. “Thank you for your beautiful work.”

Lorenzini Coleman added, “Amazing photographer. You left an amazing trail of awesomeness!”

Contributed Diane Marie, “Very sad news, indeed. Thank you for every captured moment. Thank heavens you were there.”

Sub-Headline : Found Dead in his South Pasadena Home
ByLine : By Bill Glazier Review Editor

http://south.pasadenanow.com/fleetwood-mac-photographer-remembered/

Wow I really hope the part about him not being found for several days is not true...
Did he not have any family or friends that would have noticed they hadn't heard from him...

[michelej1]

Wow I really hope the part about him not being found for several days is not true...
Did he not have any family or friends that would have noticed they hadn't heard from him...

That's always sad. But it takes awhile for you to conclude something is wrong. With my dad (I was in California and he was in Illinois), he called me on a Thursday night and I should have called him back then, but we always spoke on Saturday, so I just said I'd talk to him on Saturday.

Well, Saturday I could not get him and I gave him a day before I figured something was wrong. So, I didn't call 911 until Sunday and, from what I can tell, he must have had his stroke Friday. So, he was there from Friday until Sunday. It was not that I didn't miss him or care. I just thought I would give it the benefit of a doubt before panicking. My dad was still alive though, when they found him, but severely dehydrated and, of course, to reverse stroke damage, you really need to do something within the first 2 hours.

I guess when you have loved ones who live alone, you have to be overly vigilant, even if they aren't that old, really.

Michele

[LB Freakazoid]

Wow I really hope the part about him not being found for several days is not true...
Did he not have any family or friends that would have noticed they hadn't heard from him...

This story hits close to home.....
I was very close to my mom - and my only family - I talked to her on a Sunday morning - she died instantly of a stroke that afternoon.... I didn't find out that she died until Tuesday only because she didn't go into work Monday and Tuesday and her co-worker/friend called me to see if I heard from her cuz it was unlike her not to call in.....

So... even if you don't talk to someone for 2 days, life will pass on....
It's not uncommon.....

But on point... I am sorrowful of Herbert's passing.... He gave us all a gift - a glimpse into the people that gave us all so much... Which in turn showed us who he was....

[louielouie2000]

Hearing Herbert explain the photo sequence on the back of Rumours was one of the highlights of the Making Of Rumours documentary that came out in the late 1990s. I don't know much about photography, so hearing his train of thought as a photographer was fascinating to me. And what he deemed an accomplishment vs what was standard. I don't think I've viewed photography the same way ever since. :)

http://i0.wp.com/stevie-nicks.info/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/1997-fm-classic-albums-herbert-worthington.jpg

It is really hitting hard how quickly people in the Mac sphere are dying off these days. It just seems like a domino effect ever since Judy Wong's death. :distress:

[Ghost_Tracker]

And listen to his tone of voice when he's describing the photo on the top of the back of the album. Very clear that he was someone that felt a great deal of love, in my opinion. :)

[Ghost_Tracker]

Hearing Herbert explain the photo sequence on the back of Rumours was one of the highlights of the Making Of Rumours documentary that came out in the late 1990s. I don't know much about photography, so hearing his train of thought as a photographer was fascinating to me. And what he deemed an accomplishment vs what was standard. I don't think I've viewed photography the same way ever since. :)

http://i0.wp.com/stevie-nicks.info/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/1997-fm-classic-albums-herbert-worthington.jpg

It is really hitting hard how quickly people in the Mac sphere are dying off these days. It just seems like a domino effect ever since Judy Wong's death. :distress:

By the way, the last I knew, this documentary was available on Netflix.

[michelej1]

The Tusk photo shoot tape stuff is one of my favorite things related to FM. I liked hearing them get direction.

Michele

[Ghost_Tracker]

I think that's the point - there was no one to handle it. Very sad. I would imagine there is no obit because there is no money to pay a funeral home who handles that - and they charge extra for that too if you want it in a big paper and not just the standard notice.

I have family members who will be in the same situation one day with no life insurance to cover funeral costs and no family who can cough it up.

There's an obituary now. I'll post a link tomorrow if no one else has by then.
By the way Lori Nicks has confirmed his death on her Facebook page, I believe.

[Ghost_Tracker]

I sent a Friend Request on Facebook to Barry del Bostwick, which was just accepted.

***Barry del Bostwick is the son of Beverly Worthington, who was the sister of Herbert W. Worthington III. There is a photo of Beverly Worthington on her Facebook page in which she appears with someone who is clearly Herbert. In the "About" section of her Facebook page, Beverly W. lists Barry del Bostwick as her son and has a link, complete with photograph, to the same page as the one where my Friend Request was just approved.***

***On that same Facebook page - Barry del Bostwick's - there is a post about the financial difficulties he's having with Herbert's final arrangements and a link to the site for donations - http://www.gofundme.com/58qz70 ***

I really feel that we can feel 100% certain at this point that this is a legitimate and genuine request.

(Beverly Worthington has passed but the photo can be seen in her "About" section:
https://www.facebook.com/bevworthington )

https://www.facebook.com/bobby.bostwick/

The photo is from Bobby Bostwick's Facebook account, where just this moment I had a discussion with him further confirming it. It's the same photo which appears on the FM News page and the donation site.

[BlueDenimLamp]

I sent a Friend Request on Facebook to Barry del Bostwick, which was just accepted.

***Barry del Bostwick is the son of Beverly Worthington, who was the sister of Herbert W. Worthington III. There is a photo of Beverly Worthington on her Facebook page in which she appears with someone who is clearly Herbert. In the "About" section of her Facebook page, Beverly W. lists Barry del Bostwick as her son and has a link, complete with photograph, to the same page as the one where my Friend Request was just approved.***

***On that same Facebook page - Barry del Bostwick's - there is a post about the financial difficulties he's having with Herbert's final arrangements and a link to the site for donations - http://www.gofundme.com/58qz70 ***

I really feel that we can feel 100% certain at this point that this is a legitimate and genuine request.

(Beverly Worthington has passed but the photo can be seen in her "About" section:
https://www.facebook.com/bevworthington )

https://www.facebook.com/bobby.bostwick/

The photo is from Bobby Bostwick's Facebook account, where just this moment I had a discussion with him further confirming it. It's the same photo which appears on the FM News page and the donation site.

Sounds fishy if you ask me...

While I don't doubt he's could be related to Herbie don't forget Herbert owned the copyrights on ALL those pictures...

If Herbert still had the copyrights you would need a good lawyer to handle the estate...

If it were me the first thing I would do would be finding a good lawyer...

It should be fairly simple for the lawyer to quickly dispose of some assets to cover a funeral...

I don't mean to sound cruel here but I would think the band especially Stevie would offer financial assistance if they knew about this...

[SpyNote]

Here's a news report:

Found Dead in his South Pasadena Home

By Bill Glazier Review Editor
Published: November 13, 2013 05:39:50 PM
Herbert W. Worthington III, iconic Fleetwood Mac photographer who made his home in South Pasadena, has passed away.

South Pasadena police entered his home in the 600 block of Prospect Avenue on Sunday afternoon to discover Worthington’s body. Sources are saying Worthington could have been dead for several days.

Worthington’s photos of the famed group were admired by millions of fans worldwide over the years.

Many commented on his website, recognizing the legend for his contributions to the band. He was revered for his pictures of Mick Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham.

“Rest in peace Mr. Worthington,” wrote one anonymous fan. “Thank you for your beautiful work.”

Lorenzini Coleman added, “Amazing photographer. You left an amazing trail of awesomeness!”

Contributed Diane Marie, “Very sad news, indeed. Thank you for every captured moment. Thank heavens you were there.”

Sub-Headline : Found Dead in his South Pasadena Home
ByLine : By Bill Glazier Review Editor

http://south.pasadenanow.com/fleetwood-mac-photographer-remembered/

FINALLY. :rolleyes:

[SpyNote]

Sounds fishy if you ask me...

While I don't doubt he's could be related to Herbie don't forget Herbert owned the copyrights on ALL those pictures...

If Herbert still had the copyrights you would need a good lawyer to handle the estate...

If it were me the first thing I would do would be finding a good lawyer...

It should be fairly simple for the lawyer to quickly dispose of some assets to cover a funeral...

I don't mean to sound cruel here but I would think the band especially Stevie would offer financial assistance if they knew about this...

Exactly. The dust hasn't even settled and this guy comes out of nowhere asking for a large sum of money. Even if the guy is related, shouldn't he be asking his family members, friends, local charities, even his church, for assistance first? How about taking out a loan? I don't mean to be cruel either, but this does look a little shady.

[jannieC]

Exactly. The dust hasn't even settled and this guy comes out of nowhere asking for a large sum of money. Even if the guy is related, shouldn't he be asking his family members, friends, local charities, even his church, for assistance first? How about taking out a loan? I don't mean to be cruel either, but this does look a little shady.

Exactly. He had some pretty high profile friends. Seems like those folks are in a better (and more appropriate) position to help the family with funeral costs, if needed.

I had a really sweet experience with Mr. Worthington several years ago over a calendar. He learned (not by me) that I couldn't afford one and sent me one for free. We exchanged several emails and my experience with him was that he was genuinely loving and thoughtful. I never shared this with anyone because I didn't want anyone to know he had sent me a free calendar. This must be devastating to family and close friends. Poor Stevie has had a lot of loss recently. :(

[KarmaContestant]

I've read on Facebook that many of those beloved photos Herbie took that we admire so much belonged to Warner. He was the photographer, but only working for Warner. They paid him royalties - I can't imagine it was much, though.

[BlueDenimLamp]

There is now a "facebook group" collecting donations for Herbert and they are trying to figure out what funeral home to send them to...

[BlueDenimLamp]

I contacted the "GoFundMe" site asking if they verified the validity of the claims people are seeking donations for and I received this response...

Hello there,

Thank you for getting back to me.

We always recommend only donating to those you personally know and trust. If you'd like to ask any questions of the page creator, you can easily do so by clicking the "Contact" button on the page, and choosing the "Send the Organizer a Message" option.

Due to the volume of campaigns started on GoFundMe every day, we are not able to know every detail behind each campaign, but if you ever feel that a page is fraudulent, just let us know and we will be happy to investigate.

I would recommend reaching out to the page creator directly to get some clarification on your questions.

Please let me know if I can answer any other questions for you!


Thank you,

Kelsea

[SpyNote]

I've read on Facebook that many of those beloved photos Herbie took that we admire so much belonged to Warner. He was the photographer, but only working for Warner. They paid him royalties - I can't imagine it was much, though.

I agree that he probably wasn't obscenely rich. But you can certainly live a good life as a commercial photographer in Hollywood. Most prolific commercial photographers have a standard tiered-pricing-structure licensing agreement, a percentage of royalties per items sold (e.g. $0.50 for every CD/album sold). Just on Rumours alone, he would have made a killing. Add the other retrospectives, which all license the use his photography and the royalties continue to add up.

[BlueDenimLamp]

I agree that he probably wasn't obscenely rich. But you can certainly live a good life as a commercial photographer in Hollywood. Most prolific commercial photographers have a standard tiered-pricing-structure licensing agreement, a percentage of royalties per items sold (e.g. $0.50 for every CD/album sold). Just on Rumours alone, he would have made a killing. Add the other retrospectives, which all license the use his photography and the royalties continue to add up.

Interesting...Does this apply to magazine articles as well???

Everyone has been wondering why Lindsey insisted the "Rumours" cover be used recently...
Could Bucky have been trying to steer some money Herbert's way...

[SpyNote]

Interesting...Does this apply to magazine articles as well???

Yup, that goes for the electronic use of the image too.

This is why I think these guys never go after fans for using images illegally. They already make so much from commercial licensing.

[KarmaContestant]

I agree that he probably wasn't obscenely rich. But you can certainly live a good life as a commercial photographer in Hollywood. Most prolific commercial photographers have a standard tiered-pricing-structure licensing agreement, a percentage of royalties per items sold (e.g. $0.50 for every CD/album sold). Just on Rumours alone, he would have made a killing. Add the other retrospectives, which all license the use his photography and the royalties continue to add up.

True, but I have a hard time believing Herbert would have made even 10 cents per copy of Rumours sold. At an average of $10 per copy, a dime would have been 1 percent. Why would the cover photographer get anything, especially 5% or even 1% of sales royalties? More likely he was paid a one-time fee for the photo session. And even if he got 1%, that's still spread over 40 years! Yes you can make good money as a commercial photographer, *when you're in demand*. Herbert was known for his photos of Stevie and Fleetwood Mac, which dried up two decades ago, and that's really about all there is. No other fame or notoriety existed for him. He hasn't even taken pictures of Stevie since Timespace.

I just see no reliable revenue stream for him. :shrug: Dying is expensive, unfortunately.

I'm sure Warner will now take all of his beloved photos they own and publish them in a book - you know, the ones we all know, but that Herbert never put in his calendars because he probably didn't own the rights to them. Too little too late. I wish our culture could put more emphasis on appreciating people when they are alive.

If it is all just a sham, which I seriously do not want to believe, well, that's more sad than his passing. But after what happened with Judy Wong, it's too easy to believe that Herbert was just another person trampled underfoot when the Mac machine rolled through town.

[MikeInNV]

True, but I have a hard time believing Herbert would have made even 10 cents per copy of Rumours sold. At an average of $10 per copy, a dime would have been 1 percent. Why would the cover photographer get anything, especially 5% or even 1% of sales royalties? More likely he was paid a one-time fee for the photo session. And even if he got 1%, that's still spread over 40 years! Yes you can make good money as a commerial photogrpaher, when you're in demand. Herbert was known for his photos of Stevie and Fleetwood Mac, which dried up two decades ago, and that's really about all there is. No other fame or notoriety existed for him. He hasn't even taken pictures of Stevie since Timespace.

I just see no reliable revenue stream for him. :shrug: Dying is expensive, unfortunately.

Agreed. The band themselves are probably splitting about a $2.00 royalty for each copy of Rumours sold, so if Herbie earns anything, it is a pittance.

[michelej1]

I agree that he probably wasn't obscenely rich. But you can certainly live a good life as a commercial photographer in Hollywood. Most prolific commercial photographers have a standard tiered-pricing-structure licensing agreement, a percentage of royalties per items sold (e.g. $0.50 for every CD/album sold). Just on Rumours alone, he would have made a killing. Add the other retrospectives, which all license the use his photography and the royalties continue to add up.

Well, I can believe he didn't have a lot of money, but Mr. Worthington is gone now and as long as his funeral expenses are covered (which they probably will be by people who actually knew him) fan donations can't help him any longer. If he were alive and in need that would be a different story, but there's no reason to send money to help his survivors.

Michele

[SpyNote]

True, but I have a hard time believing Herbert would have made even 10 cents per copy of Rumours sold. At an average of $10 per copy, a dime would have been 1 percent. Why would the cover photographer get anything, especially 5% or even 1% of sales royalties? More likely he was paid a one-time fee for the photo session. And even if he got 1%, that's still spread over 40 years! Yes you can make good money as a commercial photographer, *when you're in demand*. Herbert was known for his photos of Stevie and Fleetwood Mac, which dried up two decades ago, and that's really about all there is. No other fame or notoriety existed for him. He hasn't even taken pictures of Stevie since Timespace. I just see no reliable revenue stream for him. :shrug: Dying is expensive, unfortunately.

If you have a commercial licensing agreement, you will continue to make money on something (royalty) as long as it continues to sell. Whether you're "in demand" has nothing to do with something you've already worked on and has proven to be a great success.

I really disagree with the assessment that Herbie was down on his luck. He lived in an affluent part of South Pasadena in a very nice house. If things were bad, all he'd have to do is sell his house.

[KarmaContestant]

I really disagree with the assessment that Herbie was down on his luck. He lived in an affluent part of South Pasadena in a very nice house. If things were bad, all he'd have to do is sell his house.

That's cool. None of us really know...I just hope that some relative isn't playing the fan base for money. I hope you're right.

Also, I can't believe how many times I've been to Pasadena....I could have tried to visit him. :laugh:

[CADreaming]

Won't the state cremate the body and give the remains to the family and deduct the expenses from the estate?

[BlueDenimLamp]

Won't the state cremate the body and give the remains to the family and deduct the expenses from the estate?

If no one claims the body after a specified amount of time I think that's exactly what will happen...

I would think that if a will isn't filed rather quickly (especially with the alleged next of kin living out of state) that the state will step in and the estate will go into probate...

[michelej1]

If there's proof that money is pending, many funeral homes will work with the family. The family assigns the amount that is owed to the funeral home and the funeral home will perform funeral and burial expenses in advance of getting payment.

Michele

[BlueDenimLamp]

If there's proof that money is pending, many funeral homes will work with the family. The family assigns the amount that is owed to the funeral home and the funeral home will perform funeral and burial expenses in advance of getting payment.

Michele

That makes sense...The funeral home becomes a creditor and gets paid when the estate is settled...
Personally my last few relatives that passed away had preplanned everything...
It sounds a little creepy but it's a lot easier on everyone...

[CADreaming]

Sharing this post written from Herbie's nephew to a fan on facebook. Hope they don't mind, but it updates on the financial question and future arrangements for those who were considering donating:

Not a lot to update you on, other than we (the immediate family) are working through the necessary logistics of getting Uncle Herbie's body to the mortuary. Stevie has expressed that she wants to put together the memorial service for him- this seems nothing but the right thing to do as she and Fleetwood Mac were as much family to Herbie as I am, along the rest of his blood-related family. I have exchanged a number of very sincere and lovely emails with some very close friends of Herbie's. Life-long friends that have a TON of warm memories and concern about what's going on. We are working very hard on this this week and look to be moving to a position where we can begin putting his body to rest, securing & preserving Herbie's legacy and possessions.

Right now, I have no idea if any financial help/support will be necessary- we just aren't there yet. We absolutely appreciate your generous gesture and will be in touch if there's anything we feel you or the fans can do. Until then, please keep your kind thoughts, memories and words coming- it does nothing but warm our hearts and I'm sure Herbie can feel the love.

My best, Chaun

[BlueDenimLamp]

Sharing this post written from Herbie's nephew to a fan on facebook. Hope they don't mind, but it updates on the financial question and future arrangements for those who were considering donating:

Not a lot to update you on, other than we (the immediate family) are working through the necessary logistics of getting Uncle Herbie's body to the mortuary. Stevie has expressed that she wants to put together the memorial service for him- this seems nothing but the right thing to do as she and Fleetwood Mac were as much family to Herbie as I am, along the rest of his blood-related family. I have exchanged a number of very sincere and lovely emails with some very close friends of Herbie's. Life-long friends that have a TON of warm memories and concern about what's going on. We are working very hard on this this week and look to be moving to a position where we can begin putting his body to rest, securing & preserving Herbie's legacy and possessions.

Right now, I have no idea if any financial help/support will be necessary- we just aren't there yet. We absolutely appreciate your generous gesture and will be in touch if there's anything we feel you or the fans can do. Until then, please keep your kind thoughts, memories and words coming- it does nothing but warm our hearts and I'm sure Herbie can feel the love.

My best, Chaun

I knew it...

I just could not believe that if Stevie knew about the situation that she wouldn't offer to help... :angel:

[desertangel]

Wanted to add my condolences here... a sad time for Mac fans, for sure. RIP Herbie and thank you for your wonderful talent that created a lasting legacy for millions of fans. I really enjoyed seeing his name get mentioned in so many rock autobiographies. He was so well-respected, what an inspiration! Like Waddy, Keith, Ken, etc. just a great, warm and talented group of people. I am honored to be a fan, even during the sad times.

[Newzchspy]

Exactly. The dust hasn't even settled and this guy comes out of nowhere asking for a large sum of money. Even if the guy is related, shouldn't he be asking his family members, friends, local charities, even his church, for assistance first? How about taking out a loan? I don't mean to be cruel either, but this does look a little shady.

BUT if you understand the process, it MAY NOT be that fishy. Here's why. The funeral home wants to be paid (usually upfront) and in the absence of any type of life insurance to secure payment or cash upfront, they are reluctant to get involved in the transaction. Its a business after all. Burial costs can well exceed $10,000 and perhaps the estate is NOT liquid enough to provide that kind of capital. If he had no lineal descendants to take care of arrangements and no brother /sister to do so, it very well could have been left to the nephew.

BlueDenimNote stated: That makes sense...The funeral home becomes a creditor and gets paid when the estate is settled...
Personally my last few relatives that passed away had preplanned everything...
It sounds a little creepy but it's a lot easier on everyone...

Yes, they may be a creditor, BUT the large majority want to be sure there's a "liquid estate" to pay the bills and the estate settlement process aka Probate can take years!!

[SpyNote]

I knew it...

I just could not believe that if Stevie knew about the situation that she wouldn't offer to help... :angel:

This sounds most legitimate of everything that has been posted so far. If Stevie is planning to take care of the memorial, she will make sure everyone who should be there gets there. This online donation thing is pure crap.

[BlueDenimLamp]

This sounds most legitimate of everything that has been posted so far. If Stevie is planning to take care of the memorial, she will make sure everyone who should be there gets there. This online donation thing is pure crap.

Thank You...

[Gypsy0033]

This sounds most legitimate of everything that has been posted so far. If Stevie is planning to take care of the memorial, she will make sure everyone who should be there gets there. This online donation thing is pure crap.

I don't think that it is " pure crap" that a nephew is trying to get to his uncles wake and doesn't have the funds, so he created a fundraiser. As Stevie once wrote, Have a heart.

[SpyNote]

I don't think that it is " pure crap" that a nephew is trying to get to his uncles wake and doesn't have the funds, so he created a fundraiser. As Stevie once wrote, Have a heart.

The problem is that he instantly went to the public the second he died. Any reasonable person would find this unusual. Like I said before, you exhaust your other resources and contacts before asking the public for help.

[BlueDenimLamp]

The problem is that he instantly went to the public the second he died. Any reasonable person would find this unusual. Like I said before, you exhaust your other resources and contacts before asking the public for help.

I agree with you...A public fundraiser should be far down on the list...
First on my list would be contacting a local attorney for advice on the matter...

[SpyNote]

I agree with you...A public fundraiser should be far down on the list...
First on my list would be contacting a local attorney for advice on the matter...

If his story is true, and I say "if" only because none of us knows who he is, then maybe he should reach out to his relatives or Herbie's close friends who have made themselves known on the tribute page, or Ken Caillat who was pictured recently with Herbie, or even Stevie's management. If he has the ability and tenacity to set up an online donation form, then he can do all the other things to make a more direct appeal for help.

The fact that only he has only raised $30 says that people want more concrete information, at the very least.

[Gypsy0033]

The problem is that he instantly went to the public the second he died. Any reasonable person would find this unusual. Like I said before, you exhaust your other resources and contacts before asking the public for help.

Sorry but I disagree. And I consider myself a reasonable person. How much time do you think this man has to gather funds? Of course he had to reach out right away. Maybe he has no other resources. Did you know this man is disable? I hope you never find yourself in his position.

[DashingDan]

Sorry but I disagree. And I consider myself a reasonable person. How much time do you think this man has to gather funds? Of course he had to reach out right away. Maybe he has no other resources. Did you know this man is disable? I hope you never find yourself in his position.

I disagree as well. Maybe he's young. I'm over 45 and work with young people so I can make the following sweeping generalization; many and many young adults have no misgivings about living their lives online nor do they regard crowd-sourcing funds for well-intentioned personal reasons as undignified or unbecoming.

[Macfanforever]

I cant imagine whats going to happen to Herbs photo archives. I hope they dont get thrown into a dumpster like most estate cleanups from the executor of the estate.

I've seen that happen here .

Herb probably wont want them in the wrong hands like a eBay sleazebag to make a big profit and a ripoff on eBay.

Stevie and his nephew could get together and make a deal and liquidate and sell his photo archives and his photography equipment to cover the costs of Herbs services and other bills.

He probably has photos of Stevie and FM that nobody has never seen before.

It would be great if somebody could make a tribute to Herb with his photos.

[I'msoAfraid95]

I cant imagine whats going to happen to Herbs photo archives. I hope they dont get thrown into a dumpster like most estate cleanups from the executor of the estate.

I've seen that happen here .

Herb probably wont want them in the wrong hands like a eBay sleazebag to make a big profit and a ripoff on eBay.

Stevie and his nephew could get together and make a deal and liquidate and sell his photo archives and his photography equipment to cover the costs of Herbs services and other bills.

He probably has photos of Stevie and FM that nobody has never seen before.

It would be great if somebody could make a tribute to Herb with his photos.

I'd like to see those unreleased photos made into a book for us fans to drool over!

[BlueDenimLamp]

I cant imagine whats going to happen to Herbs photo archives. I hope they dont get thrown into a dumpster like most estate cleanups from the executor of the estate.

I've seen that happen here .

Herb probably wont want them in the wrong hands like a eBay sleazebag to make a big profit and a ripoff on eBay.

Stevie and his nephew could get together and make a deal and liquidate and sell his photo archives and his photography equipment to cover the costs of Herbs services and other bills.

He probably has photos of Stevie and FM that nobody has never seen before.

It would be great if somebody could make a tribute to Herb with his photos.

The big question here is did Herbert have a will ???

If he had a will it establishes what he wanted done with his estate after he passed away...

If he had life insurance who is the beneficiary is or if it goes to the estate then it could be used for funeral expenses...

If there is a will it should specify who the executor / executrix of the estate is...It's possible Herbert and the nephew were estranged and he will receive nothing...

I'm quite sure that Herbert would have specified what was to become of his life's work...Perhaps he left Stevie the pictures he took of her...

If Herbert died without a will then that's a whole other story...

If he didn't have a will then most likely the estate will go into probate...The state will step in and a Judge may be appointed to make all the decisions as to what happens and who gets what...

Estates can get very complicated rather quickly which is why as I posted earlier the first thing you probably should do is get a lawyer or find out if the deceased had a lawyer that handled their affairs...

[BlueDenimLamp]

.

Herb probably wont want them in the wrong hands like a eBay sleazebag to make a big profit and a ripoff on eBay.

I would keep an eye on ebay because if the nephew gets his hands on any of Herbert's work there's a good chance that's where it will end up...

[I'msoAfraid95]

The big question here is did Herbert have a will ???

If he had a will it establishes what he wanted done with his estate after he passed away...

If he had life insurance who is the beneficiary is or if it goes to the estate then it could be used for funeral expenses...

If there is a will it should specify who the executor / executrix of the estate is...It's possible Herbert and the nephew were estranged and he will receive nothing...

I'm quite sure that Herbert would have specified what was to become of his life's work...Perhaps he left Stevie the pictures he took of her...

If Herbert died without a will then that's a whole other story...

If he didn't have a will then most likely the estate will go into probate...The state will step in and a Judge may be appointed to make all the decisions as to what happens and who gets what...

Estates can get very complicated rather quickly which is why as I posted earlier the first thing you probably should do is get a lawyer or find out if the deceased had a lawyer that handled their affairs...


My dad didn't have a will. The probate process took over 4 years!

[michelej1]

By Zen Vuong, Pasadena Star-News [click to see young picture of Herbie with his sister]

http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/obituaries/20131124/famed-fleetwood-mac-photographer-dies-at-69#author1

November 14, 2013

SOUTH PASADENA >> Herbert W. Worthington III, Fleetwood Mac’s photographer, left many indelible images in people’s minds, but friends and family most remember a “gentle giant” capable of seeing beauty in even the grotesque.

He was 69 when he died earlier this month.

Worthington and Jimi Hendrix were pals, half-brother Bob Worthington Jr. said. But they would’ve been friends even if “Herbie didn’t know how to take a snapshot on a Polaroid.”

“Herbie had that kind of magnetism, that kind of aura that would draw people to him,” said Bob Worthington, 78. “He was kind of a Bohemian monkey, so to speak. He just could click with the greatest.”

After not hearing or seeing the famed photographer for four days, neighbors called authorities, Coroner Ed Winter said. The South Pasadena Fire Department performed a “welfare check” about noon on Nov. 10 and found Worthington dead on his bed.

Worthington died of heart disease, but his time of death is uncertain, Winter said.

The talented photographer is so beloved that friends and fans have devoted a Facebook page to his memory. Stevie Nicks Info also published an online tribute:

“Worthington is best known for photographing Fleetwood Mac’s iconic 1977 album cover, ‘Rumours’ — providing the concept, inspiration and even the footstool for the ‘Rumours’ album cover,” it said. “Worthington captured the mystical allure of the band and was instrumental in creating the iconic imagery (such as the crystal ball) which is still associated with Fleetwood Mac today.”


His family provided an intimate look into the life of a man who became a lovable recluse around 1992.

Lisa Bostwick-Eilar, 47, said she and her two siblings considered Uncle Herbie a father figure because their dad wasn’t in the picture and because Uncle Herbie didn’t have any children of his own.

“When we were younger, he never wore shoes,” said Bostwick-Eilar, from Colton. “Every time, even if he came for Thanksgiving or a holiday, he wouldn’t wear leather (because it comes from cow, and he’s a vegetarian). He would step out of his Mercedes with no shoes.”

Bob Worthington recalled how his half-brother began his career. One day Herbie Worthington called his older brother to tell him someone had given him a camera. Bob Worthington asked his younger brother what kind of camera it was.

“‘Oh, I don’t know,” the elder Worthington recalled Herbie Worthington saying. ‘It’s called a 3-5-M-M-S-L-R. Can you come over and show me how to use it?’”

“What you have is a 35 mm single-lens reflex,” Bob Worthington said before asking his younger brother if he had any film.

“Film? No. I don’t have any film,” Herbie Worthington said. “I don’t even know what I’d do with it.”

Three lessons and a short time later, Herbie Worthington began shooting album covers for Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Nicks, Neil Diamond and all kinds of famous folks, Bob Worthington said.

“He ended up having an eye through the camera that was absolutely remarkable,” he added. “Herbie had the ability to — through photographic means — bring out the more beautiful features of whatever he was photographing.”

Herbie Worthington’s fame never went to his head, said nephew Bobby Del Bostwick.

“You’re talking about a guy who, whenever he would walk into a room, he would naturally duck his head down,” Bostwick said of his 6-foot-4-inch uncle, who in the 1970s often jumped into limos with big, bell bottoms and no shoes.

Friend Lori Hyde-Glaser said Worthington had a gentle soul and had a never-ending supply of wonderful stories about his life.

“He was quite the photographer, and he knew how to make you smile,” she said. “I miss his voice and his laughter. I am thankful of his gifts he gave us — his photography — and for his memories. Herbert is one of a kind.”

Worthington is survived by his half-brother, Bob Worthington; nephew, Bobby Del Bostwick; niece Bostwick-Eilar; niece Joy Lydia King; and great-nephew, Chaun Franklin Ralls; as well as all of their children.

His memorial service hasn’t been announced, because the family is still looking for Worthington’s will.

“We want to put Herbie to rest the way Herbie wanted to be put to rest,” Bob Worthington said.

[Macfanforever]

Thanks.He went in his sleep.Thats the way I want to go.My friend went like that and he was only 29.

BTW .How old was Herbie.Was he around Stevie's age.

[michelej1]

Thanks.He went in his sleep.Thats the way I want to go.My friend went like that and he was only 29.

BTW .How old was Herbie.Was he around Stevie's age.

He was 69.

Michele

[BlueDenimLamp]

Thanks.He went in his sleep.Thats the way I want to go.My friend went like that and he was only 29.

BTW .How old was Herbie.Was he around Stevie's age.

The article says Herbert was 69...At least he had a half brother and things are being taken care of...I imagine this "mad treasure hunt" for his will...

[Macfanforever]

He was 69.

Michele

The article says Herbert was 69...At least he had a half brother and things are being taken care of...I imagine this "mad treasure hunt" for his will...

Oh Ok thanks.My eyes are shot and did not see it.Thats to young to go.RIP Herbie.
Also I glad they are getting his arrangements done.

[SpyNote]

I would keep an eye on ebay because if the nephew gets his hands on any of Herbert's work there's a good chance that's where it will end up...

This remains to be seen. I hope he has enough integrity not to do this, but I have my doubts. I sincerely hope I'm wrong.

[iamnotafraid]

His family provided an intimate look into the life of a man who became a lovable recluse around 1992.




I wonder why 1992?

[michelej1]

I wonder why 1992?

What drove him underground?

Michele

[Sanne2]

I always wonder why he stopped photographing Stevie after 1994?

[BlueDenimLamp]

This remains to be seen. I hope he has enough integrity not to do this, but I have my doubts. I sincerely hope I'm wrong.

I don't think any of us want to see his work dumped on ebay or anywhere else for a quick profit...Hopefully Herbert had a will and it's located...It's nice to see that Herbert seems to have had a lot of friends and they are taking care of him...

[iamnotafraid]

What drove him underground?

Michele


Like what happened in 1992 to make him become a recluse?


_________________________________________

If Herbert still owned the negatives, or I should say the rights
to his photos/negatives then Stevie could help the estate (if
needed) and present us with a proper* coffee table book full
of photos.


* with fold out legs

[michelej1]

Like what happened in 1992 to make him become a recluse?




Yes. To get gothic: what dark trauma made him close himself off from the world.

Michele

[BlueDenimLamp]

If Herbert still owned the negatives, or I should say the rights
to his photos/negatives then Stevie could help the estate (if
needed) and present us with a proper* coffee table book full
of photos.


It now looks like Herbie left Stevie everything...

From her "Huffinton Post" article...

The guy who took the cover of Rumors, Fleetwood Mac and all of my covers, Herbert W. Worthington III, died last year and he left me everything. He left me every picture he ever took, all the way back to Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Guy and all the Fleetwood Mac stuff. All of the press photo sessions. I have an immense amount of amazing photographs taken by this great photographer who was a dear friend of mine that I can now use.
When he was alive, he was like ‘You can have that one picture but it’s going to cost you $5,000.’ I would go ‘Herbie come on! Nobody is going to pay that much money! Are you crazy?’ It’s never been seen. So we have these photographs to use and to put up behind me. There’s a picture for every song. A picture tells a thousand stories so that’s really exciting too. I’m going to try to make the beautiful art book that he always wanted to make but never got the opportunity to do.”

If true FM now has to seek Stevie's permission before using any of HW's photo's...
I wonder what the value of HW's catalogue is?

[KarmaContestant]

I really hope this turns out. I'd love this book.

It's sort of weird and maybe even narcissistic to release a picture book, but Stevie's image is so much part of her music - like many other artists of her era and beyond. I can already imagine laying on the floor, playing her records and some demos too, while thumbing through this picture book and reading the inevitable commentary she will add.

[Macfanforever]

I was hoping that she gets his collection.I dont want to see some eBayer making money off his collection.Like shes cleaning out her vault.I would love to see her release all of those photos in a big fat table book which will be called."My Life" in photos.

[BlueDenimLamp]

I really hope this turns out. I'd love this book.

It's sort of weird and maybe even narcissistic to release a picture book, but Stevie's image is so much part of her music - like many other artists of her era and beyond. I can already imagine laying on the floor, playing her records and some demos too, while thumbing through this picture book and reading the inevitable commentary she will add.

It might be all encompassing and include a large cross section of his work not just Stevie...

If she does this I expect another huge Gallery showing like she did with her Polaroid's...