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Hundreds say goodbye to roadie Scott
HUNDREDS of mourners filled Doncaster Minster to capacity for the funeral of popular young ‘roadie’ Scott Johnson.
Scott, 33, of Hickleton, died during a stage collapse prior to a Radiohead gig in Toronto, Canada on June 16.
The entire band, crew and management of Radiohead were there, as were three of Scott’s friends from Indie giants Keane, and members of Australian Pink Floyd.
Father Carl Schaeffer of Goldthorpe and Hickleton conducted the funeral, with the eulogy given by family friend Father David Dixon, who made his address with a set of floral drums at his feet.
He spoke of Scott’s “exceptional character”, and of how his short life had touched so many people. There had been so many tributes he said, then singled out two that epitomised Scott by referring to the “lovely man who was always positive, supportive and funny.....highly skilled and valued for his work.”
Another described him as “spot on”, and a “fantastic guy who was never down, was enthusiastic and thoughtful, and would do anything for you.”
These would be a good enough epitaph for anyone, said Father Dixon, but in Scott’s case there was so much more to say....
Music played a huge part in Scott’s life, as reflected in a played John Denver track that he loved as a child. Then followed Nothing Else Matters by Metallica, Love is the End by Keane, and Love You So by Free.
An accomplished musician, Scott took up drumming at high school. People were amused to hear his first “clapped out” set of drums had completely taken over his parents’ bedroom at their Hickleton home.
His first gig was with Purity when he was 15, then later, when working at Electro Music, Doncaster, he got the chance to go on the road with Manchester band Longview. He went on to work with many major bands including those that attended his funeral.
Thunderous rain eased off as the service took place, and mourners filed out to bright sunshine, leaving collection plates overflowing with notes.
A new Scott Johnson Bursary for young percussionists and musicians in Rotherham schools has been set up and donations in lieu of flowers were made to this annual award to be managed by Scott’s friends.
Scott’s parents Ken and Sue were visibly moved by the mass of people in the church. A picture of their son adorned the Order of Service programmes, that were simply headed “Our Beautiful Boy”.
Mr Johnson said, following the service, that crackling speakers had raised many a wry smile, as mourners wondered whether Scott was playing his last practical joke on a congregation full of technicians.
It was a powerful day and a fitting tribute to Scott, he said, adding that he was “touched” to see a wreath among those left on the grave from Killers’ drummer Ronnie Vannucci.
A private interment at Hickleton followed the Minster service.
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Weather for Epworth
Sunday 26 May 2013
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Temperature: 7 C to 18 C
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