Who's gonna make the gravy now? We ask master storyteller Paul Kelly

Who's Gonna Make the Gravy Now? We Ask Master Storyteller Paul Kelly

It all 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.

You loved life and went at it with passion. You cherished music, food, football, celebration, tall tales, and lively debates. We can still picture you cooking up a storm during family gatherings, with pots and pans clanging, BBQ smoking outside, a glass of wine in hand, and your favorite reggae music playing—Junior Murvin, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Gregory Isaacs, and the like.

You filled everyone's drinks and teased 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, floating around, 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.”

We first met Joe in 1996 when he wrote a letter to his brother Dan while incarcerated, fearful of losing his wife Rita and their children, and anxious that no one would know how to make gravy for Christmas. This letter became the lyrics for Paul Kelly’s classic song, How To Make Gravy.

On August 15, 2025, Paul Kelly released Rita Wrote A Letter, the long-awaited sequel inspired by Joe's story.

Paul Kelly’s Creative Journey

Paul Kelly shared that he initially tried to write the song from Rita’s perspective, but Joe’s voice was too strong to ignore. The narrative evolved from Joe’s poignant letter and the family’s heartfelt memories, creating a lasting tribute to their life and love.

This work not only tells a story of family and loss but celebrates lively gatherings filled with music, food, and shared moments, capturing the spirit Joe loved most.

Author's Summary

Paul Kelly’s songs powerfully capture a family’s love and grief, inspired by a letter from Joe and a funeral that brought their story full circle with music and memory.

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Newcastle Herald — 2025-11-08