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.
You loved life and embraced it fully. You loved music, food, football, celebrations, tall tales, and spirited debates. We can still see you cooking in the kitchen at family gatherings, pots and pans clanging, BBQ smoking outside, glass of wine in hand, reggae music playing—Junior Murvin, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Gregory Isaacs among your favorites.
You always made sure everyone had a drink and teased the little ones. Christmas just won't be the same this year without you, but we know you’ll be with us, hovering above, ensuring 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.”
Paul Kelly first met Joe in 1996 through a letter Joe wrote to his brother Dan while he was incarcerated. Afraid of losing his wife Rita and worried that no one would know how to make gravy for Christmas, Joe’s words became the lyrics to Kelly’s classic song How To Make Gravy.
On August 15, 2025, Kelly released Rita Wrote A Letter, the much-anticipated sequel to the original song.
Creating the Sequel
Kelly explained, “I was trying to write a song from Rita's point of view, but Joe just wouldn’t stop talking...” This new perspective expands the story and adds depth to the original narrative.
Legacy of Joe and the Song
- Joe’s vivid love for life and family remains central to the story.
- The music, food, and atmosphere of family gatherings reflect the spirit Joe cherished.
- The songs connect listeners emotionally, telling a heartfelt story through two perspectives.
Author’s summary: Paul Kelly’s sequel captures the heartfelt continuation of Joe and Rita’s story, blending family, music, and emotion into a lasting legacy.