Widow Myrna Hague (centre) is sandwhiched between band members of the Jamaica Big Band at Cecil Valentine (Sonny) Bradshaw's thanksgiving service at the Mona Chapel on Monday. From left are Marjorie Whylie, Desi Jones, Rupert Bent and Maurice Gordon and at the back is Jackie Jackson. - Peta-Gaye Clachar/Photographer

Not even the dark glasses could hide the grief of family members who turned out at the thanksgiving service for the late Cecil 'Sonny' Bradshaw on Monday.

It was an emotional service as his daughter, Karen Bradshaw-Hall, broke down while presenting her tribute. She was describing the many things her father liked and what he held close to his heart, such as family, nature and his endless commitment to music. Her tribute was filled with fond memories, as she recalled his favourite things like the trademark suspenders or 'braces', which he wore so proudly.

However, as she spoke about feeling the warmth of her father's hand on her face, Bradshaw-Hall could not hold her grief. Her voice trembled and wavered then trailed off, triggering several sniffles, and her brother Carey, who was by her side, gave her a consoling rub on the back, which seemed to help her regain composure.

While reminiscing on the many treasured memories, Bradshaw-Hall spoke of the many days she had to listen to her father repeatedly rehearsing the same songs, much to her dismay, as the music room was nearby.

"Afternoon cartoons were a challenge each day, as they were drowned out by the sound of his trumpet," she said.

Satisfaction with his work

She revealed that her father would not budge until one could hear him say, "Yes man, yes", signifying his satisfaction with his work.

Carey Bradshaw, who also gave a tribute, shared similar sentiments about his father's rehearsals. He spoke of his annoyance at not being able to hear his favourite cartoons because there were "no soundproof walls, no soundproof doors, no soundproof anything". However, he said, in retrospect, he recognised that the endless hours of practice were a by-product of his father's unwavering quest for perfection.

"I have learned that my father's attention to detail was second-to-none and it was these characteristics that sharpened his musical gift, which ultimately led him to become such a revered musician," the young Bradshaw said.

Overcome with grief

He too was overcome with grief at the ceremony and paused for several seconds before continuing his speech, with a reassuring touch from his sister. He spoke of many things that garnered a few chuckles from the congregation, but the moment that brought a fit of laughter was when he revealed his own set of suspenders, a commemoration to his father and declared, "It ain't that bad after all."

Sonny Bradshaw died in the United Kingdom on October 10, mere months after suffering a stroke. He was a pioneer, a multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, composer and producer, who also donned several other hats in his lifetime.

A thanksgiving service was also held for him in the United Kingdom last month.

kimesha.walters@gleanerjm.com