Speaking of memorial services, as I was: A lovely man deserves a lovely one, and Henry Gibson had one today. Henry left us in the middle of September and this afternoon, a group of his friends and family members gathered to say farewell to the Poet Laureate of television. The assemblage included many of his co-stars from Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In, including Gary Owens, Arte Johnson, Joanne Worley and Jack Riley, as well as Dick Martin's widow, Dolly. There were many fine character actors and comedians, including Jackie Joseph, Charlie Brill and Mitzi McCall, Laura Summer, Charlie Adler and even Henry's recent co-star, Rob Schneider.
Fine food was served. Friends hugged friends. As one speaker after another told of acts of friendship and compassion by the late Mr. Gibson, no one was surprised in the least. We all knew what a great guy he was…and how funny he was and how steadfastly professional he was. Still, it was nice to hear the stories — and to spend a little more time thinking of Henry.