Gram Parsons’ Body Was Stolen And Driven Across Country
When country-rock pioneer Gram Parsons died of an overdose in Joshua Tree, California, there was a typical disagreement over what the deceased would have wanted. Phil Kaufman, Parsons’ road manager, who had accompanied the musician on numerous trips to Joshua Tree National Park, knew that Parsons wished to be cremated and have his ashes scattered there. Parsons’ stepfather wanted him buried in Louisiana, and the body was shipped there. But Kaufman was intent on honoring his late friend’s wishes. To this end, he and an accomplice managed to steal Parsons’ body and drive it back to California from New Orleans in a hearse.