Amazing Gracie: Father plays bagpipes at daughter’s OSU graduation after 11 years of commencements

Amazing Gracie: Father plays bagpipes at daughter's OSU graduation after 11 years of commencements

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

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When Tony Spurlock decided to honor his family's Scottish heritage by becoming a bagpiper in 2010, he didn't know the deep connection it would make between his family and Oklahoma State University.

Starting as a member of the Tulsa Metro Pipe Band, he then joined OSU Pipes and Drums in 2014 and has played at every graduation ceremony since.

Tony's daughter, Gracie Spurlock, came along to watch her dad play at nearly every commencement. Over the years, the two have formed many ties with the university, creating memories along the way. This year, however, looks different for the Spurlocks. Tony will be there in December to play as his daughter will once again watch on, but this time as a graduate.

Over the years, the two have looked forward to every commencement as an opportunity to spend the day together in Stillwater, enjoying the amenities the college town has to offer. Gracie said these days were some of the best of her childhood.

"My dad and I would always go around to all the little stores, and we'd go shopping," Gracie said. "I really liked Rhinestone Cowgirl, and sometimes I could convince him to buy me stuff. That was a really good time."

Although Gracie began her collegiate journey at Tulsa Community College, she always knew OSU would be her home. She spent her first three semesters at TCC before transferring to OSU. She is graduating with a bachelor's degree in philosophy and plans to attend law school at the University of Tulsa.

As commencement approaches, Gracie reflected on a few of her shining moments, such as meeting former presidents Burns Hargis and Kayse Shrum, as well as current president Jim Hess.

"Growing up, I always had an OSU bow in my hair," Gracie said. "My dad has driven an orange truck for as long as I can remember. We have the alma mater hanging up on our wall. It's always just been a huge part of our family."

Tony shared that the best part of this entire experience has been bringing Gracie with him for all of these years. From photos in front of Heritage Hall and the Pistol Pete statue in Gallagher-Iba Arena to getting recognized by bystanders on campus for his work in the pipe band, the two have certainly made their mark on campus. Tony said that he's still coming to terms with the fact that Gracie is graduating.

"It's not really set in yet," Tony said. "The big way it'll be different is that I won't have my Gracie standing right there beside me on the floor as I prepare, because she'll be walking the stage. I can hardly even talk about it right now. Her mother and I are very proud."

With this commencement having a bittersweet feel for the Spurlocks, they needed to make it extra special. Gracie said she is making Tony a tie with her baby picture on it to wear to the ceremony.

Tony and Gracie both emphasized that OSU has been more than a university to them; it's been family.

"We love all the sports, but we especially love the education, the camaraderie and the experience of higher education," Tony said. "It's a diverse world. Not every graduation has bagpipes, and I'm sure not a lot of folks in the middle of America get to hear them."

Gracie said that she will look back on her time at OSU with fond memories, but is sad to be leaving. She said she met people and professors who have made a large impact on her life.

"I've taken some really cool classes. The professors are one-of-a-kind people," Gracie said. "I know that I'll always brag about going to OSU."

Story By: Hannah Carl | [email protected]