A Tribute to Darroll Lee Harding Darroll Lee Harding was more than a musician, composer, pianist, and co-founder of the Sounds of Pentecost. On February 6, 2001 taken from Denver, Colorado was a son, brother, uncle, and dear friend. Darroll was Mahalia Jackson's Number One Fan. He collected albums, cookbooks and photographs. When she passed, he even attended the funeral. Mahalia's Number One Fan Find Mahalia Memorabilia Song -- Sweet, Sweet Spirit by Victor James Everyone that knew Darroll knew of his talent and love of the Gospel, but few of us knew the real Darroll -- the comedian, perfect housekeeping, chef that loved African Art and Judge Judy. After the cards, flowers and outpouring of support is a pain and deep longing of the "wishes" to say one more word, hear one more song, and finish one more cd. These are the people that really miss you. After a year, we still hurt and cry but we are happy that you are with your Gran, Mother and Auntie. You truly touched us and we continue to feel your presence daily. Darroll Harding June 4 - Feb 6 2001 Here is Uncle Darroll blowing out the candles of his birthday lemon meringue pie with my daughter, Shary. They both had birthdays in the month of June. The Uncle You showed us Love, Power, Understanding, Forgiveness, Grace, Peace, Holiness and Righteousness you are the greatest gift to us. We will love you always and forever – until we meet again. Special Words of Love Little Brother I often look at the clouds hoping to see your smiling face rest assured that even though you are not here with us the music remains in our hearts and lives thanks for leaving so much of you behind for us to enjoy. Your sister How do I start? Where do I start? What do I do? These are all questions I've asked myself since you have gone up to heaven to play in the heavenly choir with our Lord. First of all, thank you for being you and helping me become myself. You changed my life in such a way that I will never be able to comprehend. You made me strong, you filled my life with happiness and you showed me how to praise the Lord through song. I can remember you laughing when I would do something you thought was dumb, like when we were hugging and I would be smelling you, you would ask what are you doing and I would reply, creating a memory. Little did I realize that these memories would be what would help me get through this past year. I'm not going to say that I don't miss you because I do. But your always in my heart, I can feel your presence in everything I do and everywhere I go. So until we meet again, and I know we will, keep playing that piano and organ like only you can. I can't wait to hear you play again. Gary I drive down the street, passing your new home nearly everyday. This home doesn't require that I call before coming, take off my shoes before entering, or bring tools to fix the computer but I come with the same respect and reverance. Missing you is the ultimate understatement. That first night I didn't think I would make it. I cried so many tears that my entire face and body hurt. The days have gone by and I still cry. I wonder what your new home is like, if you can still play the organ, do they finally give you the love and respect that you need to succeed there? I want to see you again and ask you all of these questions. I want to be able to listen to your laugh and see your smile. I visit your home near mine frequently and feel your spirit. I hope you're proud of me and my life. I love you Uncle. Sherry Uncle Darroll: Words cannot express all that you have done for me and Martell. I know that you are watching us from above because so many things have been happening to dampen my appreciation for the great gift you afforded Martell and I but we always seem to manage to come out ahead in the long run. You know that you have always been my favorite family member associated with the Harding clan and have been so beneficial in "trying" to include me in all of your musical endeavors. If I could do it all over again, I would have taken part in all that you asked of me, forgetting the busy schedules, overwhelming feeling of there not being enough time; little did I know those same issues were applying to your stay on this earth with us. I miss you so much and I still wonder when you will be coming "home" to reclaim your beautiful residence but as days turn to weeks, weeks to months and coming up to the year anniversary of you leaving us, I am finally realizing that you are home but in spirit. I love you, Uncle Darroll; please continue to watch us in the heavenly mansion where you reside and continue your gift of the most extraordinary music that I have been so blessed to hear with my own ears. You will NEVER be forgotten. Michelle & Martell Epperson Darroll's Loving Family and Friends Gary, Sherry and Kaye David Shary, Martell & T'Allyn