Who's Gonna Make the Gravy Now? We Ask Master Storyteller Paul Kelly
The story began with a funeral notice published on August 11, 2025, in The Age newspaper, page 33:
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 enjoyed music, food, football, celebrations, tall tales, and lively debates. We still picture you cooking enthusiastically during family gatherings, with pots and pans in use, the BBQ smoking outside, a glass of wine in hand, your favorite reggae music—Junior Murvin, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Gregory Isaacs—playing on the stereo. You made sure everyone's drinks were topped up 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, surrounding us, 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.
Origin of the Song
We first met Joe in 1996 through a letter he wrote to his brother Dan on December 21, while he was incarcerated. Joe was frightened of losing his wife Rita and their children and worried no one would know how to make gravy for Christmas. This letter inspired the lyrics of Paul Kelly’s classic song, How To Make Gravy.
New Release
On August 15, 2025, Paul Kelly released Rita Wrote A Letter, the long-awaited sequel to the original song.
Creative Process
Paul Kelly shared, "I was trying to write a song from Rita's point of view, but Joe just wouldn't stop talking..."
This continuation brings new depth to the heartfelt story begun decades ago, connecting listeners to the family’s experience through music and storytelling.
Would you like a more formal or casual tone for the summary?