Broadwindsor’s Comrades Hall was full to capacity on Thursday afternoon as family and friends gathered to celebrate the life of Simon Emmerson who died peacefully on 13th March 2023.

The ceremony at Yeovil crematorium had been full to capacity also. Led by Celebrant Philip Carr-Gomm, the Order of Ceremony was full of beautiful words and music:

• Entry Music
  Peace, Love and Harmonium from Synaethesia,
  Lush Fresh Handmade Sound
• Words Of Welcome
  Valerie Etienne singing Release.
• Eulogy
  Paul Emmerson
  Ted Emmerson
• Jackie Oates singing Lark in the Morning
• Eulogy
  Adrian Matthews
  Johnny Kalsi
• N’faly Kouyate plays the kora
• Eulogy
  Mark Constantine
• Child Among the Weeds by Lal & Mike Waterson
• Closing Words & Farewell
  Time for Man to go Home sung by Forest School Camps.

After an exceptional and moving ceremony, family and friends gathered at the Comrades Hall.  Simon’s brother Paul invited those present to share their stories of their encounters with Simon… Without any hesitation, Simon’s mother, Marcia Last – now in her 90’s – was the first to speak and we thank Marcia and the family for their permission to share this amateur recording…

Paul also gave credit and thanks to Simon’s Obituary, published in The Guardian newspaper – Click HERE.

Throughout the afternoon celebrations continued and a video montage played on the big screen with much memorabilia, predominately shared by Karen, on tables around the Hall.  This included an exclusive book of photographs taken by local resident and photographer, Jamie Dawson which he had published in time to gift Simon shortly before he died.
(Please note: all images below are copyrighted to James Dawson.)

Again with kind permission from Karen and the rest of Simon’s family, please enjoy this amateur recording by Peter Roe of the Imagined Village‘s encore! performance, joined by Billy Bragg, at the Electric Palace, Bridport last summer…

 

Yesterday, the Afro Celt Sound System stated on social media, “Thank you Simon for leaving us with the immense magic and wisdom of your music. The New Album OVA (short for Ovate) and the Afro Celt Symbol) will be a continuation of the gift you have left us. We will tour and gig with you and Jo guiding us all the way. We love you and we miss you dearly.”

Donations in Simon’s name for Weldmar Hospicecare may be given HERE.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Karen, Josie, Ted and all the family at this very sad time

We all thank you Simon! Journey on…

Simon Daniel Emmerson, 12.03.1956 – 13.03.2023

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