Bluegrass legend Curly Seckler has suffered a second stroke in just over a year. His first was in May of 2013, and it left him experiencing difficulties with speech. This second, on June 1, has resulted in partial paralysis on his left side. Seckler is 94 years old.
Curly is currently recovering in a rehab facility in Hendersonville, TN. At this point, there is no estimate for how long he will remain there. He is working to regain his strength and ability to move comfortably. Fortunately, he is not confined to his bed and can participate with therapy.
Starting in 1935, Seckler contributed his soaring tenor voice to many of the earliest bluegrass groups, singing with Charlie Monroe, Jim & Jesse, Mac Wiseman, The Stanley Brothers and The Sauceman Brothers. But it was his presence with Flatt & Scruggs in their prime that will always be most memorable about his music career. He appears on many of their notable recordings, including the video performances from the Pet Milk and Martha White television shows that have survived on video.
After the breakup of Flatt & Scruggs, Curly worked with Lester Flatt for six years, and took over fronting the show when Lester was in declining health in 1978-79 just before his death. Following Lester’s passing, Seckler continued to lead The Nashville Grass for another 15 years.
His manager, Penny Parsons, says that Curly can receive well-wishes by email, or see them on his Facebook page.
Get well soon, Curly!
