By Tim Harris
EDITOR’S NOTE: After the passing of music icon Jerry Lee Lewis on October 28, tributes have been made. Harris reached out to The Millington Star to express his thoughts on the late Lewis. Harris’ Productions helped coordinate one of the last public appearances of Lewis a few years ago.
As the town is probably aware, we’ve lost ‘The Killer’ Jerry Lee Lewis.
Born September 29, 1935 in Ferriday, La., Lewis would grow up to live a very wild and colorful life. Some would say his career in music was the same.
If the city of Millington looks back and remembers Jerry Lee was here with us celebrating at the 30th Annual International Goat Days Festival at the former location of USA Stadium. As a special guest appearance celebrating his 84th birthday, Lewis was in Flag City. It was only three short years ago.
The Killer was invited and requested to be there by Tim Harris Productions and his very special friend Glen Gossett.
Lewis was escorted into Millington by the police from his home in Mississippi to the gates of the Stadium.
Jerry was riding in a black presidential SUV along with his wife Judith, son Jerry Jr. and longtime friend Gossett.
After arriving he was taken to the stage to meet and greet fans by a couple of bodyguards and a couple of bodyguards and law enforcement friends from Millington. He was truly excited to be there. He offered handshakes and hugs.
Upon the announcement of his death the family received many, many calls, tweets, emails etc.
All by the likes of such entertainers as Kris Kristofferson, Mick Jagger, Elton John, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams Jr., Joe Walsh, Eric Clapton as the list goes on and on. Jerry Lee “The Killer” was the last man standing.
A little bit about my foundation that was also helped founded by my two daughters, was established in 2015 called Memphis Music Mentors.
We donate all types of musical equipment to the young and old that are not able to afford it on their own or anyone that’s interested in learning to play an instrument.
In early December my friend will be having an event at Hadley’s pub on the edge of Bartlett called “Kissmas for the Kids.” It’s a very nice established event.
Lots of entertainers from the Mid-South donate their time to come out and play. It’s free to the public, please donate at the door.
At that time Memphis Music Mentors will be giving away three separate instruments one in honor of Jerry Lee, one in honor of Mickey Gilley and one in honor of Elvis Presley. Proud to say the very first endorsers of our program are Mr. Boo Mitchell, son of the late Willie Mitchell who owns Royal Studios in Memphis. Also the late Mickey Gilley.
