By Esther Lauaki
The RAAF band will remember much-loved leader Derrick Humphrey this week.
The 92-year-old Werribee resident died on Wednesday, September 25, surrounded by his family.
Mr Humphrey will be remembered for his verve for teaching and lifelong passion for music. Born in Hackney, London, Mr Humphrey moved to Werribee in 1964 where he spent the majority of his life.
A saxophonist from childhood, he went on to lead the RAAF central band in Laverton and was the co-founder of the Westgate Concert Band, formed 40 years ago, to encourage young instrumentalists in western suburbs schools.
He taught music at Braybrook Secondary College and Westbourne Grammar and was named Werribee Citizen of the Year in 1980.
Mr Humphrey’s service to the music community earned him a medal of the Order of Australia in 2012.
Granddaughter Brooke Pearce said her grandfather’s generosity with his time and his patience with people will be his lasting legacy.
“He was an amazing man,” Ms Pearce told
Star Weekly. “He was always very supportive and caring towards others and so passionate about his music.
“We’re getting lots of messages from people he influenced profoundly to either pursue music, teach or join a band.” Mr Humphrey is survived by his wife Joan, three children Lynne, Jill, Paul, eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
