An intimate memorial service for radio legend Mark Pilgrim took place outdoors in Johannesburg on Friday morning, with his partner Adrienne Watkins speaking for the first time.
The service was organized by HOT 102.7 FM with the help of Adrienne, and speakers included childhood friends, business clients turned friends and Adrienne herself.
The memorial begins at 9:41 a.m., which is universal time for Apple devices, Adrienne told the audience.
“As you know, Mark is a technology nerd and an Apple nut. And in the event of apple, the big event will be at 9.41,” he said.
Adrienne Watkins’ tribute is touching
Watkins spoke out for the first time since passing Mark. He thanked the HOT 102.7 FM team for their support, as he gave an emotional and insightful speech about his final days.
He describes Pilgrim as the love of his life.
“For my beautiful Mark, this is not goodbye but just goodbye. The past three years have been the most incredible years of my life.
“From our first date, you took my breath away and it felt like a scene from a famous movie. From the beginning I knew this was the love I’ve been waiting for, you’re the one from the fairy tale.”
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Adrienne further described how they met during the Covid-19 pandemic three years ago, and “the intensity of their connection”, how they were inseparable, and “you were at home”.
Pilgrim proposed to Adrienne in January of this year.
“Throughout your incredible career and achievements, and your legend in South Africa, for me – you are the parents of the school. Even [during] last week, you ordered flowers.”
Devoted father
Like previous speakers, Adrienne said Pilgrim was a devoted and selfless father to his two daughters.
Pilgrim’s daughters, Taylor Jean and Alyssa, were in attendance.
The radio personality is remembered as a businessman, a smart person who was devoted to his work, loved radio and had a wicked sense of humor.
“It’s so easy for you, my love. That charm, the twinkle in your eyes, you’re so honest and so kind,” said Adrienne.
Trying to keep her composure, holding back tears, Adrienne then revealed a special message about Pilgrim’s daughter.
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“To Taylor-Jean and Alyssa, you have been and will be the best dad ever, you always put your girls’ needs before your own… bush adventure.”
He concluded by thanking his late partner for a beautiful love story.
“Goodbye my love, my friend. You have been the best soundtrack to my life and for that I thank you.
In the true style of a radio show, the memorial service has music played throughout with artists such as Craig Hinds performing.
Five of Mark Pilgrim’s favorite songs, which included James Blunt, were played, also played before his death.