Remembering a legend: fans and friends share Microwave Dave memories
Reading time: 4 minutes
Upon hearing of the passing of Microwave Dave Gallaher, my first thought was just how much he would be missed here in the Huntsville community. But then quickly shifted my thoughts to all of the people Dave played in front of, all of the people he played with, all of the people he helped through his foundation, and all of the people who maybe never met him but enjoyed his music.
That’s a long list. And it includes a lot of fantastic memories of a legendary musician who was proud to call Huntsville home.
Locals remember Microwave Dave
To say they Microwave Dave was a local celebrity would be an understatement of massive proportions. The guy was legendary, and had been for decades before his passing over the weekend. And we asked our audience to share memories and thoughts of Dave through the years.
What we received illustrates just how many people loved his music and were affected by his craft.
Mayor Tommy Battle said Saturday, “Huntsville has lost a true original, and his kindness and talent will be deeply missed in our community.” And that sentiment was shared by thousands.
Here are some examples:
“He arrived at my parent’s house the day my precious daddy was dying and played his guitar and we sang ‘Walk in Jerusalem Just like John.’ Rest in peace sweet Dave!”
Xan Curran
“I will miss listening to his stories and singing at The Bottle on Sunday nights. It is such an intimate setting and Dave was always out walking around talking to everyone there. He was definitely one of a kind.”
Tina Clifford
“We use to both a attend Wednesday prayer service. I had just had a miscarriage and was feeling blue. He came over and quietly kneeled with me, hugged me when we left. I never forgot that. It was a quiet kindness so representative of him.”
Molly Reid
“What a loss. The music scene will carry on. But with a hole in it.”
@bobbyz256
“You brought the Love of Music to so many and were so instrumental in helping Huntsville expand on its musical journey.”
@imddakoja
Dave’s lasting legacy
What makes Microwave Dave a true local legend is not just how he plays the guitar. It is also how much he has given back to the local community here and throughout the state.
On May 26, 2015, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle officially proclaimed June 28, 2015 “Microwave Dave Day.”
A concert was held to honor Dave for his ongoing social, educational and musical contributions to the community, and to announce the formation of a music education project: The Microwave Dave Music Education Foundation.
MDMEF works with educators and musicians to develop lesson plans that effectively pair music presentations with academic standards. In addition to the education component, MDMEF also organizes special events where accomplished local musicians perform for the students.
This organization is his legacy, as it has affected so many people in North Alabama in such a positive way. To learn more about the foundation, to volunteer or donate, visit HERE.
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