Pantera drummer Vinnie Paul’s grave marker was officially installed yesterday, Friday, May 24, 2019 next to marker of his brother, Pantera guitarist “Dimebag” Darrell Abbott at Moore Memorial Gardens in Arlington, Texas.
Paul passed away from a heart condition on June 22, 2018 whereas his brother passed on December 8, 2004 from a tragic incident.
Unlike Darrell’s, Vinnie’s marker is now covered with a thick sheet of flexible acrylic glass for protection. At one time, Darrell’s marker was a majestic sight that left visitors in awe but is now covered with etched tributes and scribbles.
Photo : Brutal Planet’s Brian McLean
Photo : Brutal Planet’s Brian McLean
Upon releasing photographs of the official installation of Paul’s marker via Pantera social media accounts, a message was included that asked for visitors “to please be respectful when visiting the brothers’ graves.”
Arlington resident Clint Wilkinson, a Marine veteran who served in Iraq stopped by the Abbott family plot to see Vinnie’s newly installed marker, pay his respects to the brothers and to place American flags at the head of each marker.
Photo : Brutal Planet’s Brian McLean
Wilkinson said from casual conversations over the years he has learned the brothers supported the troops. It’s the reason why he placed the flags.
The veteran said he feels very fortunate that he can stop by when he wants to visit and to just check on the Abbott family plot.
With the installation of Vinnie Paul’s new marker, visitors and fans who can now see that Vinnie and Darrell are once again next to each other.
Photo : Brutal Planet’s Brian McLean
Photo : Brutal Planet’s Brian McLean
