[Trombone-l] Randy Purcell

[Wayne Dyess]

I got to know Randy Purcell during my first year in the Navy Band in  
Washington.  He became a friend, though not exceptionally close.  He  
took the time to help this newbie in the band, and even invited me to  
audition for the Commodores (Navy Jazz Ensemble).  I did, made it,  
then turned it down.  Later, I found out that the spot I had earned  
was to have been Randy's.  He had just been hired by Maynard Ferguson  
and was leaving the Navy with an "early out."

I always wonder what if....

But Randy was inspirational, just as Tom says.  RIP, Randy.

We love you.


Wayne Dyess




On May 19, 2009, at 10:51 AM, Tom Gibson wrote:

> RIP Mr. Purcell. Thank you for planting a seed in this clumsy,
> clueless 5th-grader. Mom never figured you out completely, but she
> loved ya:-)
>
> Can't believe a man of your talents would take that kind of time. I
> owe you much, my man. Stay cool. We will miss you....already do.