ATLANTA — An essential member of the Atlanta-based group Dem Franchize Boyz has passed away, according to a post by mega producer Jermaine Dupri.
Dupri took to Instagram Sunday to share his condolences on the passing of Gerald Tiller, better known by his stage name "Buddie."
Other notable Atlantans such as rapper 2Chainz, reality star Mimi Faust, singer Monica and more posted their shock underneath Dupri's post.
The group also posted a slide show of pictures on their official Instagram page saying that Buddie will be missed on Monday -- alongside a video of him.
In one post they wrote, "This is not a goodbye, this is a thank you. Thank you for coming into Our life and giving us all your Energy, & Thank you for the memories we will cherish forever. Rip buddie."
Dem Franchize Boyz is the group behind "Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It," "White Tee," "I Think They Like Me" and more. They exploded onto the scene in 2004 with their self-titled debut album. Dupri signed the "snap music" group to So So Def in 2005.
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