Ex-Beatle George Harrison Dies

After a lengthy battle with cancer, former Beatle George Harrison died at age 58 on Thursday, November 29 at a friend’s home. Harrison’s wife, Olivia, and son Dhani, 24, were by his side. The Harrison family released this statement: "He left this world as he lived in it, conscious of God, fearless of death, and at peace, surrounded by family and friends. He often said, ‘Everything else can wait, but the search for God cannot wait.’"

Harrison, a long devotee of Hinduism, was said to have been cremated in a cardboard coffin hours after his death in keeping with his adopted faith. In a statement released on Monday by Hare Krishna authorities, his ashes will be sprinkled in the holy Ganges River. No clear details on if, where or when the immersion ceremony would take place has been forthcoming. Hare Krishna officials in India have been sending mixed signals. The ritual may have already taken place according to officials in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. Interior Secretary Naresh Dayal said, "So far, we have received no information with respect to Harrison’s ashes. All I can presume is perhaps (the Harrison family) wanted it to be a private affair, so they might have already come and gone without informing anyone."

Harrison was the youngest Beatle and was considered the "Quiet Beatle." The surviving members of the most famous rock band are Paul McCartney, 59, and Ringo Starr, 61. John Lennon was shot to death at age 40 in 1980 by a deranged fan. McCartney told reporters outside his home in London on Friday that he is devastated by the loss of Harrison. "He was a lovely guy and a very brave man and had a wonderful sense of humor. He is really just my baby brother."