Rex Brown has written a long and moving tribute to his late friend Vinnie Paul.

The former drummer of Pantera and Hellyeah died on June 22 at the age of 54. He was buried at a public memorial event in Dallas last week.

In the service, many of Vinnie's friends paid their respects, including Pantera's former bandmate, Phil Anselmo, who appeared via a video link.

And now, former Pantera bassist Rex Brown has written a tribute to Vinnie Paul for Rolling Stone. Rex formed Pantera in 1981 with Vinnie and Dimebag Darrell, who was killed on December 8, 2004.

In the tribute, Rex sends his condolences to Vinnie's family and relatives, especially to his father, Jerry Abbott, "who opened his studio and showed us the ropes at the beginning." No one should have to bury their children.

He goes on to describe the first days of his friendship with Vinnie at school, training Pantera and the close bond he shared with the Abbott brothers.

"Vinnie was influenced by many great metal drummers, but once he got behind the kit, each and every one of them had to take a look at what Vinnie Paul, the brick wall, was doing," Rex writes. "He changed the game, he was the original of his generation, a generation that is still on the march, everybody wanted to play like him, people always thought those were sample tracks, they were not.

Rex reflects on the disappearance of Pantera, his legacy and some highlights of his career, including the four original members of Kiss. Vinnie singing a happy birthday.

"The best way to honor Vinnie is to celebrate his life." He approached percussion and friendship, with his own style of perfection, "We must remember the great moments we shared with him." Rest in peace, Vinnie, and give Dime a great opportunity. "He gave us a Texas-style hug. You made an incredible mark in the world and you took us away too soon. "