San Pedro and the wider Belizean community are mourning the loss of Tim Budd, known affectionately to so many as Barefoot Skinny. More than just a musician, Tim was a mentor, a friend, and a soul who lived life with passion, humor, and an endless generosity of spirit. He passed away yesterday, leaving behind a legacy of music and memories that will continue to resonate for years to come.
A Musician’s Heartbeat
Tim Budd’s life in San Pedro was deeply intertwined with music. He had the rare gift of being a “musical genius”, someone who could coax magic from any instrument and make it look effortless. From teaching at San Pedro High School as the head of the school band to performing nightly at restaurants and bars across the island, his love for music was infectious.
Countless young musicians credit him with igniting their passion, pushing them to grow, and reminding them that above all, music should be enjoyed. As Marco A. Chan shared: “He took his time to teach, coach, mold, and motivate us to push limits and to work hard, practice smart, but most importantly: enjoy. All lessons I apply to this day.”
Tim Budd Memories Etched in Music
Everyone who knew Tim seems to have a story, those moments when he lit up a room, dropped a piece of musical wisdom, or simply made someone laugh. Marco recalls the first time he heard Tim play alone with the power of a full band: “That unassuming, barefoot & skinny man was sipping a drink in one hand and hitting the keys effortlessly with the other. He was a force majeure; his vibrancy, wisdom, musical knowledge and sharp wit were never in short supply to share and brighten up any gathering.”
For others, it was his warmth and camaraderie that stood out. Jane West bid him farewell with, “Adios and Vaya con Dios. You’re off to that Great Gig in the Sky. You will be remembered by many, tales told for years to come.”
Bonds That Transcend Time
Friendship was at the core of Tim’s life. Libby Vidrine reflected on a chance encounter that turned into one of her life’s most meaningful connections: “34 years ago, one summer night at Journeys End after his first gig on the island, Tim Budd walked up and asked if he could sit in the hot tub with me. Little did I know this would start one of the most significant friendships in my life.”
Her words capture both the depth of their bond and the pain of loss: “How lucky were they? How lucky am I? Still being the one left standing alive, it hurts so much, but who would I be without meeting you, without loving you? I’d live it all again to be your friend.”
Beyond the Stage
Tim was more than a musician. He was a supporter of conservation and causes close to his heart, standing by the Belize Wildlife & Referral Clinic and others from their earliest days. As Isabelle Parquet-Durand shared: “Tim, or Barefoot Skinny, was not just a lovely human and musician but also an avid supporter for conservation… I lack words to describe the sadness.”
The Belize Soul Project echoed that sentiment: “Our friend artist Barefoot Skinny has joined the ancestors… such a great contribution to the arts, as a music teacher, songwriter, actor, and MC. Thank you for your art and friendship.”
A Lasting Legacy
For those who shared a stage with him, his influence was unforgettable. Soly Moreno expressed it beautifully: “You weren’t just an incredible musician… you were a storyteller, a soul who poured life into every note and melody. You showed me that music isn’t just sound, it’s feeling, it’s history, it’s a way to connect hearts. Your music and your spirit will live on in all of us.”
Farewell, Mr. Tim Budd
Farewell, Barefoot Skinny
Tim Budd’s passing leaves a hole in the heart of San Pedro and Belize, but his music, mentorship, and friendships ensure his spirit will never fade. As Jane West wrote, “tales told for years to come” will keep him alive in the stories we share and the songs we continue to play.
Tim’s legacy is one of joy, creativity, and deep human connection. The island will remember him not just for the music he made, but for the way he made people feel, welcomed, inspired, and part of something bigger.
Rest easy, Barefoot Skinny. Thank you for the love, the music, and the memories.
