“Moully” De Iron Man
St. John’s,
Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - Rolston “Moully” Francis
was an Antiguan ‘son of the soil’ who hailed from “The Point,”
birthplace of the Lime Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra (Estb.
1945) of Antigua. “Moully” - a tradesman, soccer player,
bodybuilder, cricketer, warri player, domino player, swimmer,
boxer, mentor, pacifist and philanthropist - was well known,
loved and respected by all throughout his community and
within the Antiguan Pan fraternity.
“Moully” served the Hell’s
Gate Steel Orchestra with genuine commitment and dedication
for over forty years. He was a brother, father, friend and
inspirer to all the members of Hell’s Gate.
“Moully” managed the “rhythm
section” (engine room) of the orchestra for over thirty-five
years and commanded the respect of all who came under his
supervision.
“Moully” played all the instruments
in the rhythm section. However, his main instrument was
the “IRON.” Without the essential Iron there is no Steel
Orchestra, and “Moully” was the anchor Iron Man. He was
always full of energy and exhibited great stamina when beating
Iron, and could do so for hours non-stop. He performed with
the energy of ten men.
“Moully” is already greatly
missed by all he has touched. His legacy will live on. His
kindness and honesty will be etched in our memories forever.
Farewell, “Moully De IRON Man.”
by Stafford Joseph
Rolston “Moully” Francis (center) on De Iron
