Beach music icon Billy Scott dies of cancer at 70

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MYRTLE BEACH, S.C., Nov. 20 (UPI) -- Beach music icon Billy Scott has died in Charlotte, N.C., following a short battle with liver and pancreatic cancer, his band the Party Prophets' website said.

He was 70.

"It is with great sadness to inform you all that Billy Scott passed away ... Nov. 17 at 10:30 [a.m.] after his battle with pancreatic cancer. Thanks for all the cards, letters, thoughts, prayers and financial support," the online message said. "Also thanks to everyone involved in planning upcoming numerous Billy Scott fundraisers in North and South Carolina to help Gail, his wife, with medical expenses."

Best known for his hits "I Got the Fever" and "California," the West Virginia native performed as a member of The Scottsmen and various incarnations of The Prophets throughout his decades-long career, Myrtle Beach (S.C.) Online noted.

"He was an excellent entertainer, just a sweet person. Would give you the shirt off his back," Lulu Quick, a friend of Scott's for nearly 40 years and an employee at Fat Harold's Beach Club in North Myrtle Beach, told the website.