The Patriarch

**beloitpiper** · 30th November 06, 03:01 PM

My grandfather, the eldest in the Long sept, has been very ill for quite a time. I went to visit him a few days ago and mentioned St. Andrew's Day and he told me he wanted me to come and play the pipes for him. I put on my kilt and I went to his place before classes this morning with my smallpipes. He was laying in bed and asked for some music. I played a few tunes, and when I was finished he had slipped away. The Honorable Joseph Richard Long, Esq. 87 years old, married to his only wife for 65 years.

**flairball** · 30th November 06, 03:04 PM

Sorry to hear of your loss. I'll bet your music made his last moments on this earth the best they could be. You did a good thing, and I'll be drinking one for you and your grandfather tonight.

**cessna152towser** · 30th November 06, 03:05 PM

Very poignant tale; thanks for sharing; and condolences on your loss. It was good that he was able to hang on till St. Andrews day to hear those pipes.

**dragoninterrupted** · 30th November 06, 03:06 PM

My condolences. What an honor to accompany him into the pearly gates with the sounds of the pipes! God bless you and your family, and Memory Eternal.

~James

**Kiltman** · 30th November 06, 03:13 PM

How wonderful for you to be with him. A good day to die for him.
Condolences to you and his wife and family.

**MrLion** · 30th November 06, 03:14 PM

I'm glad you were able to spend those last minutes with him in that way.

**auld argonian** · 30th November 06, 03:15 PM

My condolences.

It's rare these days that grandfather and grandson can share so much and even rarer that they should share such an intimate moment in life. The two of you were very fortunate.

Best

AA

**mkmound** · 30th November 06, 03:35 PM

My most sincere condolences to you and your family.

**Planopiper** · 30th November 06, 03:39 PM

Condolences to you and your family. It's not uncommon that someone will tell me they would like me to play at the funeral for a loved one who is getting near to death because "They love the bagpipes." I always tell them "If they love the pipes, then maybe I should play for them now, while they can hear them." I can't imagine a more peaceful way to go than listening to my own grandson play for me. You did a wonderful thing.