Photo by Dino Perrucci

Mick Jagger and Keith Richards can’t seem to agree on much these days but the Rolling Stones leaders will come together to help pay for Hubert Sumlin’s funeral. According to an article in The New York Times, Jagger and Richards picked up the tab as a thank you to the former Howlin’ Wolf guitarist, who inspired their blues-rock sound.

Sumlin’s partner Toni Ann publicly thanked the Stones and also offered the following thoughts on Sumlin’s website:

Our dear friends… It is with a heavy heart that the worse has come to fruition. My little Hubert is living the life of a real angel. I’m overwhelmed with grief and so I really need to pull myself together. I’d really appreciate it if you would kindly respect our privacy during this most difficult time.

I love you Hubert. You are eternally etched in my heart. And my life is not only richer and blessed for who you’ve been to me, but the world over. And I will never be the same because of you. May you be forever in God’s beautiful grace.

I’ll spend the rest of my days loving and cherishing all you are and were to me.

The members of the Rolling Stones are reportedly deep in talks on their proposed 50th anniversary celebration. The celebratory run may include former members Mick Taylor and Bill Wyman, in addition to the group’s current lineup.