Reba McEntire Halts Show to Honor Drummer’s Graduation: ‘We Brought the Graduation To Him’
By Movieguide® Staff
At a recent concert in Florida, Country star Reba McEntire took a moment to honor one of her band members, drummer Garth Justice.
The award-winning artist paused the concert and called Justice on stage, noting that tonight was his graduation ceremony from Lee University, in Cleveland, Tennessee.
“Ok we are going to interrupt our regular scheduled programming,” she told the crowd. “As you all know, we were supposed to be here a month ago, not to come here tonight. And also tonight in Cleveland Tennessee, they are having a graduation ceremony at Lee University, where my drummer, Garth Justice, was supposed to be there tonight, graduating with a degree in business management.”
With his family in attendance, Justice appeared on stage in cap and gown, as Reba handed him his diploma.
“Fortunately he decided to come join us tonight and play the show, so we brought the graduation to him,” she said.
“May I present to you, the class of 2022 of Lee University, Garth Justice,” she added while choking up.
After the impromptu graduation ceremony, Reba and the band played one of her classic songs, ‘Is There Life Out There’ in honor of Justice’s achievement.
Justice took to Facebook after the show to show his gratitude for Reba and the rest of the band.
“I’m still speechless over this moment on Saturday night. If you’ve ever wondered what type of person Reba McEntire is, wonder no longer,” he wrote. “She’s the queen of country music and she’s the real deal. None sweeter or more thoughtful. Marne McLyman, Tayler Bock, and Melonie Murphy outdid themselves planning this whole thing. And the band and crew were all in on it as well. They all made a memory for me that I’ll never forget. Now, what to get them all for Christmas?!?”
Garth’s wife, Shelly, added: “What an honor it was to have @reba recognize @garthjustice on his graduation day! He wasn’t able to walk at @leeuniversity but this was the next best thing! Thanks to Reba and all of her team for making my husband feel so loved!”
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