I AM writing this letter regarding the Requiem Mass held at St Mary's Church Holton Road, on March 24, of a dear lady Barbara Smith.

I attended the service, but there was a large crowd and as the hall had been filled, almost a hundred people were obliged to wait outside the church until the service was conducted.

While we were waiting we heard the sound of a jazz band rounding the corner of Cross Street and St Mary's Avenue.

The band played When the Saints Go Marching In.

As it reached Holton Road and went off to Castleland Street we heard The Old Rugged Cross.

If the jazz musicians meant to convey a heartfelt message of gratitude for their feelings for the family of the dear lady, I'm sure it succeeded.

Having attended many funerals, I know that this message seemed to convey thank you. The whole crowd was lifted.

Name and address supplied