It was the greatest honor to play for the funeral of the 102-year-old Dr. Bone. I grew up in the house next door to his, and Jacksonville lost a kind and generous soul with his passing. He was much-loved, and a great singer in his own right. It was quite fitting that his funeral service featured an array of local musicians – harp, organ, chamber choir, and brass trio.
I played prelude music as the church filled to capacity. The music included hymns and classical pieces, with the final selection being “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Carousel. This is a piece I remember Dr. Bone singing, with an unforgettable stage presence, even into his late nineties. The service concluded with the brass trio playing “When the Saints Go Marching In.”
Dr. Bone was a gift to Jacksonville, especially its medical and academic communities. He was a gentleman and a scholar, a true Renaissance man, and an avid supporter of the arts. He will be missed, and I was blessed to have known him and play for his service.