Greetings all,
Firstly, sincere condolences to the Davis family for their incalculable loss. The loss of a son, brother, father, grandfather and the many other positions he held within the family. A great void difficult to fill.
I lived in Nottingham until 1983 and was pretty much integrated into the family up until that time and for sometime after.
I was trying to remember the first time I met Leslie/Jasper. It could have been in 1974 on the top deck of the number 40 bus from the Meadows into town and perhaps it was an end of year school disco at Roland Green where I was a pupil. Leslie would've been a school year older than me and from another school and that year’s difference seemed larger back then. Anyway, there was a group of guys sharing the top deck making up noise with banter. One of them clocked me and commented how "mi look like a sweet bwoy eena mi white jacket'. That was Leslie. Can’t quite remember but maybe Clifton and Martin were there too.
Well, some would say that Leslie was 'eggs up' and he did come across as confident, noticeable and larger than life. But in essence he was genuine, upful and honest. So, I always remember that first encounter.
Our paths would cross years after at various stages throughout the mid 70s/early 80s. The House of Dread on Alfreton Road, Quantro sound system, Pan African Congress Movement events and activities, Marcus Garvey Centre, Ukaidi, Ujaama and many others.
I didn't know Leslie had been ill a couple of years ago until I saw him at Johnny's 63rd. He bought drinks but didn't want the return drink. I promised to buy him one next time we 'buk up'. Sadly, that will not now come to pass.
The last time I saw him was when he gracefully sang a song at my Dad's funeral last year. He was well known for his velvety voice, Dennis Brown being an early inspiration. I am eternally, eternally grateful that he blessed the funeral repast with that contribution.
Once again, bountiful blessings to the fam, stay strong for the last farewell.
Walk good bredda Leslie, bless up.
Ambasa, Charmaine and family.
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