Who's Gonna Make the Gravy Now? We Ask Master Storyteller Paul Kelly
Paul Kelly shared that he first intended to write a song from Rita's point of view, but the character Joe’s voice quickly took over the narrative. What began as an idea for one perspective became something richer and more unexpected.
The story returned to public attention after a funeral notice appeared in The Age newspaper on August 11, 2025. It read:
"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."
The tribute captured Joe’s vitality and love of life — his passion for music, food, football, laughter, lively debate, and family gatherings. Friends remembered him cooking energetically in the kitchen while reggae filled the air — Junior Murvin, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Gregory Isaacs and others — a glass of wine nearby and laughter surrounding him.
"Christmas just won't be the same this year without you. But we know you'll always be with us, hovering above us, floating all around us, making sure we get it right."
The funeral and service took place on August 14, 2025, followed by what was described as a wake to end all wakes.
The Song That Started It All
Paul Kelly first introduced Joe to listeners in 1996 through the song How To Make Gravy. That song originated from a letter Joe wrote to his brother Dan on December 21 while serving time in prison, expressing fear of losing his wife Rita and their children — and worrying about who would make the Christmas gravy in his absence.
Nearly three decades later, on August 15, 2025, Kelly released Rita Wrote A Letter, the long-awaited sequel told from Rita’s perspective, closing the circle on a story that had resonated with generations.
Author Summary
A heartfelt reflection on Paul Kelly’s enduring storytelling — from Joe’s first letter in 1996 to a poignant farewell in 2025, capturing love, memory, and legacy.