The British Steelies Society

It is with deep sadness that I have been asked by Fiona’s family to let forum members know that Fiona passed away peacefully yesterday.
Fiona lived in Millport Isle of Cumbrae in Scotland, Myself and Willie Gamble have known her over thirty years, she was a a house player, and never really gigged, she was a very good player. Fiona attended all Gerry’s Festivals and the Jeff Newman courses that Gerry put on, She used to travel with Willie and myself to the Irish Festivals, and many a great laugh we had together, her health has not been good for some time now, and sadly we lost her yesterday. You will be missed Fiona. We send our sincere condolences to her family and friends at this sad time.

Very sad to hear that Fiona lost her long fight yesterday. Like Malcolm and Willie I had known Fiona many years, she had been a member of the British Steelies society for several years we used to meet up with her at the Newbury and Irish steel festivals when she came with Malcolm ,Willie and other players from Scotland. I had 4 conversations on messenger with her last month when she was in hospital and she was still interested in steel guitar talk.
My condolences to her family and friends.
RIP Fiona, Flower of Scotland!

So sorry to read this. I first met Fiona at my first Newbury festival in 1988.She was so inspired by Jeff Newman and held him in very high regard.
My sincere condolences to her family. At least she is at peace now. RIP Fiona you will never be forgotten.

Malcolm mcmaster and I went over to the Isle of Cumbrae today to bid a fond farewell to Fiona Tomany (a sister of the Bar) who sadly passed away last Friday.
The service was held in The Cathedral of the Isles in Millport, it was a lovely send off and I had the honour of playing a piece of music for Fiona (at her request) and I am pleased to say that it was very well attended.
Rest in peace Fiona, we will miss you.
Asleep at the steel

So pleased to read that Fiona got a well attended, good send-off. She deserved it.
Mr. Gamble, If you don't mind me asking, what was the piece of music you played for Fiona?
Thanks for your time Bill Gauld.

Hi Bill, the piece that was played was The Dark Island, a traditional Scottish waltz. I was told by her sister it was the tune that was playing over and over when she slipped away. It was very moving, for me anyway
Thanks for asking
Asleep at the steel

Bill, you can find it on YouTube, with Willie playing it at the Irish steel festival.This was the recording we used.Fiona had chosen it a few weeks ago.

Many thanks Willie and Malcolm for your replies. I remember before I even thought about getting a laptop how Fiona and I could easily spend almost 2 hours on the phone talkin steel guitar and country music. She was such a help and encouragement when I bought my steel guitar, not to mention her computer knowledge when I got the laptop.
Thanks again to both of you. Bill Gauld.