STYX guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw has paid tribute to Vinnie Paul Abbott, praising the former PANTERA drummer's "good nature, humility and sense of humor."

Vinnie Paul reportedly died in his sleep at his home in Las Vegas on Friday, June 22. He was 54 years old.

In a Facebook post, Shaw wrote: "So sad to hear about the passing of Vinnie Paul. We met when JY [STYX guitarist James Young] and I joined him on Eddie Trunk's 'That Metal Show' on March 17, 2012. We were immediately taken by his good nature, humility and sense of humor.

"There are few stories in rock that can rival what Vinnie Paul experienced. From mega success to tragedy, he was amazingly unaffected by it all.

"I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to spend time with him that day and wish his friends and family comfort as they mourn his loss.

"Rock on, Vinnie Paul!"

Vinnie Paul's body has been turned over to the medical examiner to determine a cause of death, and after that, he will be flown back to his home state of Texas to be buried between his mother and brother.