Who's gonna make the gravy now? We ask master storyteller Paul Kelly
The story began with a funeral notice published on page 33 of The Age newspaper on August 11, 2025:
“With great sorrow, we announce the death of Joe by sudden misadventure. Much-loved father, husband, brother, brother-in-law and uncle to Dan, Rita, Stella, Roger, Mary, Angus, Frank and Dolly,” it read.
You loved life and went hard at it. You loved music, food, football, celebration, tall tales and strong argument. We can still see you cooking up a storm in the kitchen at our big family gatherings, pots and pans on the go, BBQ smoking outside, glass of wine in hand, your beloved reggae music on the stereo, Junior Murvin, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Gregory Isaacs and the like. You filling up everybody’s drinks and teasing the little ones.
“Christmas just won’t be the same this year without you. But we know you’ll always be with us, hovering above us, floating all around us, making sure we get it right. The funeral and service will be on August 14th. Followed by a wake to end all wakes! Further details to follow.”
A letter that inspired a classic song
We first met Joe in 1996 when he wrote a letter to his brother Dan on December 21, while in prison. He was fearful of losing his wife Rita and their children, and anxious that no one would know how to make gravy for Christmas. This heartfelt letter became the lyrics of Paul Kelly’s classic song, How To Make Gravy.
The sequel releases after decades
On August 15, 2025, Paul Kelly released Rita Wrote A Letter, the long-awaited follow-up to the original story told through Joe’s letter.
Paul Kelly’s storytelling legacy
- Transforms everyday moments into powerful narratives
- Captures deep emotions through evocative lyrics
- Connects personal history with universal themes
Paul Kelly’s work immortalizes intimate family stories, blending grief and love in a way that resonates widely.
Author's summary: Paul Kelly’s songs, born from a heartfelt letter, continue the legacy of family, memory, and celebration, linking past and present through music and storytelling.