How do I help?

very sorry for your friend's loss js, our hearts go out to her and his family even if we don't know her. Sounds like she has some time to think about it, however my head tells me he would have wanted her to go. She could keep the tickets and not go and have a keepsake for the memories, it's a tough call. Welcome to the forum, sounds like both of you need some Bonalove and it exists here.
Tres

Hello jsfriend.  Please pass my condolences on to your friend.  Unfortunate circumstances indeed.

...Were you (with or w/o another significant person) already planning on attending?  If no, you must take her.  You will need a box of tissues likely, but the blues, and especially the way Joe Bonamassa plays them, can wrench a heart, rend it wide open or into pieces, and (I believe the reason blues music rules the universe is) then though agonizing at times, blues helps one pick up the pieces and send healing whether the theme is venting anger, questioning everything, death, getting it on, utter alienated loneliness, etc. (endless list).  Next, I would not push it if she really wasn't a Joe Bonamassa fan in her own right, and I hope to not and do not mean to offend by merely suggesting she might not be.  I notice you user name is jsfriend.  Your friendship is the strongest comfort she can have from you...as a friend you must do what seems best.  We here would encourage your friend, if and when she is interested and willing, to join in here on the forum.  Yes, we deal with these sensitive territories here.  Peace and love pretty much pervade the premises here.  Many here have had (or are having) tragedies and sad stories whether their own or a friend or family member.  She can feel the embrace of strangers she may never meet, but know in heart and soul and in joy and in sorrow....it's part and parcel of life, and Joe Bonamassa's soulful blues aussages much for many here...Big hug to you and your friend especially.

Rock On & Keep the Faith,
Rocket

"He still doesn't charge for mistakes! "
http://jbonamassa.com/tour-dates/
"Everybody wants ta get inta the act!"
“Now, this isn’t your ordinary party crowd, here.  I mean, there are professionals in here.”

Dear jsfriend, so very sorry for you and "J".  My heart goes out to you both.

Unfortunately, I can relate.  My best friend (divorced in her 30's) and her new "perfect" boyfriend (a motocycle fan) were both killed instantly, ran into a tree on a ride when the road unexpectedly turned sharply.  Her 2 kids were left behind, and his 3 kids.  Life is so full of tragedy.  "J" is totally blessed to have you by her side to get her through this.

I agree it should be her decision whether to attend the show.  However, if he plays Last Kiss, Stop, even So Many Roads or Mountain Time, and especially Sloe Gin or Happier Times, or oh my gosh, Asking Around For You, she may not be able to bear it.  You indicated she was a fan, so if she is familiar with Joe's work, she may be in a better position to make the right decision.  But if she goes (hopefully with you), just be prepared that she may have to leave in the midst of the concert.

We will all be thinking of you both and sending prayers your way.  Best of luck.  Please let us know how it goes.