Gary Davies’ last post
Bellingan said that Davies served the band until his untimely death.
Pipe Band tutor for St Benedict’s College Gary Davies died on March 30.
Vice President of Pipe Bands Association Southern Africa (PBASA) Rory Bellingan said that he died of heart attack.
“Gary learnt to play the pipes at Northlea High School in Zimbabwe and then, on moving to South Africa, he played in the SAS Rand Pipe Band and the Transvaal Scottish Pipes and Drums,” said Bellingan.
He said that Gary also played for the Germiston Caledonian Society Pipe Band.
“We extend our sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gary at this sad time,” said Bellingan.
In 1988, when the St Benedict’s Pipe Band was first formed, Davies became its first tutor.
Bellingan said that Davies served the band until his untimely death.
Andre Oosthuysen, the executive headmaster at St Benedict’s College, said that Davies was a pivotal figure in the history of the St Benedict’s Pipe Band.
“The band celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2018 and Gary had been involved from the earliest of days.
“His role as piping tutor and champion of the band was central to the success the band has achieved over the years,” said Oosthuysen.
He said that many of the members of the pipe band would look back fondly at Davies, as he was gentle and patient as he helped them master bagpipes.
“Gary’s sudden passing has left the St Benedict’s Community deeply shocked.
His quiet and steady presence in our school community will be greatly missed. We share our deepest condolences with Gary’s family and friends,” said Oosthuysen.
