The funeral of Johnny Collins took place at Breakspear Crematorium in Rusilip, West London on Thursday 13th August. The repatriation process from Poland took weeks to be completed, and he wasn't returned to these shores until nearly the end of July.
Suffice to say that the service, and the reception afterwards back in South Pinner at the home of his Herga Folk Club, were totally awesome. Hundreds of people came from near and far to say a final farewell to someone who had played a part (large or small) in their lives. The tributes at the service from his family and closest friends, summed up the man perfectly. The songs selected were, again, perfect for the occasion, and the singing just took your breath away. The reception was, as anticipated, a wonderful celebration of Johnny in song – hours and hours of songs sung in tribute, with wonderfull choruses, harmonies and so much affection.
I just feel humbled to have been a part of that day.
