One of our pipers assists at the Surrey Mission. After band practice, he announced that one of the regular attenders at the Mission, an elderly man named Doug, had died, and that there would be a memorial service in his memory. He planned to participate by playing a hymn on the pipes in Doug’s memory, and would anyone like to accompany him?
Immediately, our pipe-major volunteered, as well as another two pipers. I quickly responded. When we arrived on the Monday afternoon, the four of us in our kilted outfits were gratefully welcomed. Each piper’s kilt was of his own tartan.
Many who were associated with the Mission, told of their friendships with Doug, and that as rough a person as he seemed to be on the outside, he still had a kind heart and a humorous side which everyone liked. It was an interesting story when someone told of him hiding an amount of ice-cream behind other articles in the refrigerator, and then finding a time when he could share it with his friends, and receive the credit for his thoughtfulness.
A minister who knew Doug, gave a beautiful eulogy and others spoke of his friendship. Then, we played, “Amazing Grace,” and the Negro spiritual, “Goin’ Home.” It was really beautiful.
Afterwards, we were thanked by the lady in charge, and told how much our contribution of music meant to everyone. It was particularly touching for each of us as pipers, that in remembering Doug, who was everyone’s friend, we had gained immeasurably ourselves, strengthening the bond of friendship for the four of us, and for the other bandsmen who weren't able to be there. They could appreciate that our effort was also made by the band's Memorial at the Mission.
