Mark James Danna, age 53, entered eternal life on Tuesday, June 20, 2017 in Pasadena, Texas. He was born July 22, 1963 in Pasadena, Texas.  Mark is survived by his loving partner, Lisa Heuring McConnell; parents Anthony and Sandra Danna; daughter Brittany Danna; brothers John Danna and wife Catherine, Paul Danna and wife Elaine, nephews Allen Danna, Ryan Danna, and Kevin Danna; numerous cousins and many friends by whom he was blessed.

He will be missed by his faithful dog, Buddy. Mark attended Pasadena High School, San Jacinto College, and the University of Houston where he was a member of Kappa Kappa Psi.  He played saxophone during his academic years. He worked as a draftsman in his early career, and later as an I/T and automation specialist. Mark had a deep love for the outdoors and enjoyed camping, hiking, kayaking, birding and nature photography.

Mark was involved in charitable organizations and conservation efforts and completed the MS 150 in 2009. Other hobbies included astronomy, woodworking, clock repair and RC airplane building and flying.

There will be a memorial mass at St. Hyacinth Catholic Church, 2921 Center Street, Deer Park, Saturday, July 1, 2017, 10:00am.

Dr. Robert Lee (“Bob” or “Bobby”) Chambers transited into Life of Eternality peacefully on June 18, 2017 in Weatherford, Oklahoma at the age of 65 after fighting a courageous battle with Glioblastoma Multiforme IV (brain cancer) since the end of 2014.

Bob is survived by his loving wife Dr. ChihChen Sophia Lee, son Robert (Robby) D. Chambers, of Hydro, Oklahoma, step-son Dr. Tyler T. Miller of Dallas, Texas, step-daughter Belinda C. Lee of Weatherford, Oklahoma, sister and brother-in-law Linda and Jim Rothfuchs of Niles, Michigan, sister and brother-in-law Donna and Les Avant of Banner, Oklahoma, brother Bill Chambers and sister-in-law Crystal Chambers of Chickasha, Oklahoma, four nieces and four nephews, and a host of devoted great nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert W. and Alberta L. Chambers.

Bob was born on November 24, 1951 in El Reno, Oklahoma to Robert and Alberta Chambers. He graduated from El Reno High School in 1970. He attended college at Southwestern State College (SWSC, currently known Southwestern Oklahoma State University SWOSU), receiving the Bachelor of Music Education in 1974, and the Masters of Education in Music in 1976. He earned his Doctorate of Musical Arts (DMA) in Trombone performance with the minors of Music Theory and History from University of Oklahoma in 1986. He had an incredible career at SWOSU as a Professor of Music, where he mentored many students and taught applied lessons and classes in Trombone, Euphonium, Guitar as well as Graduate Classical and Jazz History and Theory Classes for 41 years, and directed SWOSU Symphony Orchestra for 38 year (when he also played violin occasionally).

Bob was a very accomplished musician in many genres (from Medieval Sackbut or Lute Music to the 21st Contemporary Classic Multimedia repertoires, from Bluegrass on fiddle or Banjo, Polka on trombone or accordion, to Bebop Jazz on Trombone or Guitar/Bass) and with amazing talents. He often commented that he was so fortunate to wake up every day and do what he loved. He was the Principle Trombonist of Lawton Philharmonic Orchestra since 1989 and Lyric Theater in 1999. He also served as a contracted trombonist of Oklahoma City Philharmonic Orchestra, Enid Symphony, just to name a few, over the years. He was a dedicated educator, transforming his passion of music into mentoring his students. In addition to music, Bob enjoyed the Romantic Arts, Reading, Mechanics (rebuilding several cars and motorcycles of his own), Motorcycling, Carpentry, Hunting, and gun collection.

He was an active and dedicated member of the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Kappa Kappa Psi, International Trombone Association, Oklahoma Music Educators Association, Oklahoma Bandmaster Association, and the International Association of Jazz Educators. He was also a member of the First United Methodist Church in Hydro and Weatherford, Oklahoma. He enjoyed performing at various clubs, churches and organizations when he had an opportunity.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff members of Corn Heritage Village of Weatherford, Russell-Murray Hospice, and Weatherford Regional Hospital for their care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s Honor to the First United Methodist Church of Weatherford General Fund, or SWOSU Foundation Instrumental, String (going into the SWOSU Symphony Orchestra) or Music Therapy Scholarships (http://www.swosu.edu/academics/music/alumni/foun-donation.pdf).

Heaven’s orchestra and jazz band will be much more glorious with his addition.

Brother Shaun Vega, Jr is one of the 12 charter members of the Theta Lambda chapter of Kappa Kappa Psi at the University of Memphis. Since his initiation into the Fraternity on October 25, 2009, Shaun has championed its motto, “Strive for the Highest,” in academics and personal aspirations. As a charter member of the chapter, Shaun is an integral part of the chapter’s culture. We celebrate the life of our dear brother, always admiring his ambition and capacity to love.

#4 “Simply PSIKhotiK”

Click here for A Resolution for Brother Vega from the Memphis Alumni Association

On June 3, 2017 we lost our amazing daughter Lindsay in a rafting accident near Riggins, ID. In the end, our little “river rat” was doing what she loved.
Lindsay had a lust for life and enjoyed traveling, photography, camping, rafting and sharing great times with her friends and family. One of her friends stated it the best- she was a bright bubbly optimistic light in an Eeyore world. What better compliment.
Lindsay has been a great student of education. She attended Meridian schools until relocating with her family to Great Falls, MT. She graduated from Great Falls High in 2004 and continued her education at Montana State University. She graduated from MSU with honors and received a BS degree in animal science in 2008. Her love of smaller animals led her to College of Southern Idaho in Twin Falls, ID. She graduated in 2010 with an Associate’s Degree as a Veterinary Technician.  Lindsay worked for two years at Big Sky Animal Medical Center in Great Falls, MT before accepting a position for Pacific Steel and Recycling in Lewiston, ID. In 2016 she accepted a position with Pacific back in Great Falls where she lived until her passing.
Lindsay is survived by her parents, Paula and Russell Rice and her brother, Andrew. All of her family and friends from all over the United States will miss her contagious smile and loving heart.
We all mourn her leaving, but are just so grateful to have had her in our lives and forever in our hearts.
Cremation is under the direction of Accent Funeral Home in Meridian, ID. We will have a Celebration of Life, at a later date, to honor her memory.
Lindsay was a proud sponsor of Locks of Love- 234 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33405. Donations in her name to this or other charities of your choosing would be greatly appreciated. Remembrances may be left for the family at www.AccentFuneral.com.
Published in Idaho Statesman on June 11, 2017

Samuel Hudson McDade, Jr.,age 70, departed this life on Friday, May 5, 2017. He was born December 15, 1946 in Montgomery, Alabama to the late Samuel H. McDade, Sr. and Mary Louise Tate McDade.

He leaves to cherish his memories a loving and faithful wife, Bettye Duncan McDade; one daughter, Samille A. McDade; four sons, Michael A. McDade, Printes M.(Ursula) Duncan of Ellenwood, Georgia, Gerald M. (Alesha) Cooke, Courtney Z. McDade; five grandsons, Jacobie J. Moorer, Robert L. Thrasher, Michael A. McDade Jr., Parker H. Duncan, and Gerald M. Cooke Jr.; three granddaughters, Tiffany N. Wilson, Kennedy E. Duncan, and MaKhya D. Thornton; three great-grandchildren, Jacobie J. Moorer, Jr., Jakayla J. Moorer, and Samiah N. Thrasher; two sisters Elizabeth McDade and Lela M. Person-McDade; two brothers-in-law, Willie J. (Pricilla)Duncan Jr. and Joe Duncan; sister-in-laws Ida Mae Farris, Bernice (Willie) Oliver, Ann (Jerome) Barnes, a devoted niece Michelle (Geoffrey) Carter; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Samuel McDade attended Booker T. Washington High School in Montgomery, Alabama. His love for music encouraged him to join Booker T. Washington’s Marching Band where he played trombone and later became drum major. He graduated in 1965 and matriculated to Alabama State University where he became distinguished as “Head Drum Major”of Alabama State University Marching Hornets, under Director of Bands, Dr. Thomas E. Lyle, Jr., for four years. In December, 1967, Alabama State Marching Hornets traveled to New York City via train, to perform at Shea Stadium for National Football League New York Jets vs. Kansas City Chiefs half-time show, which was broadcast from start to finish on NBC television. Marking the first time an entire half-time show had been broadcasted coast-to-coast on national television. This year marks the 50th year anniversary of said momentous performance. He was also given credit for establishing “Marching Hornets LEAN-BACK”. He pledged Omega Psi Phi in the fall 1966 and was a charter member for Kappa Kappa Psi Band Fraternity, established in Spring of 1967. He received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science with a minor in Music in 1969 from Alabama State University.

Upon graduating from Alabama State University in 1969, he followed the distinguished Director of Bands at Carter Godwin Woodson High School, Mr. Henry Arthur Duncombe, Jr., in Andalusia, Alabama. Dr. C.C. Baker was Principal of Woodson High School.

Samuel McDade was employed by the Montgomery County Board of Education and began teaching History and band at Montgomery County High in Ramer, Alabama. He also served as Director of Bands for the Montgomery County High Marching Band.

In 1978, Samuel McDade began working for Bell-south where he served as a cable splicer and was apart of the company track team until his retirement in 2002.

Samuel McDade performed on trombone in numerous Montgomery popular bands such as; King Tutt and The Untouchables, Syndicate Band and Harold Young and The Magnificents. He also toured internationally with recording artist, Clarence Carter.

Samuel McDade was active in the community. He attended Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, under the leadership of Reverend Johnny J. Hollis, where sang lead in the male chorus. He was a proud member of Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alabama, Hamilton Lodge No. 365. He was also a member of the international Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, Southern Pride Lodge No. 432 where he was awarded “Man of the Year” in October of 2003.

The memorial service for Mr. McDade will be Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 12 Noon at Mercy Missionary Baptist Church 4720 Bell Rd. Montgomery, AL 36116.

Ms. Lajoyce Walter, 44 of Hampton, AR passed Tuesday, May 2, 2017.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 11:00 AM, at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Hampton, AR by Rev. Steven Paylor. Interment will be in Pickett Cemetery by Brown-Williams Funeral Home of Fordyce, AR.

Visitation will be Monday, 3:30-5:30p.m., at Brown-Williams Funeral Home.

Edwin Ernest Pessara Jr., 73, died peacefully at his home April 19, 2017. A member of the Mid-Coast Community Band, he is survived by his wife, Carol (Chase) Pessara, son Edwin James Pessara, and grandson, John Spencer Pessara. Memorial gifts may be made to Mid-Coast Community Band, c/o Jo Anne Parker, 361 River Road, St. George ME 04860. In keeping with his wishes, there are no public services planned.

As we reflect on our lives, we often ask: “Did I make the lives of those I touched a little bit better? Did I help?” For John W. Stout (University of Michigan BM ’79, MM ’81), the answer is a resounding and unequivocal yes!

John was an artist, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and a consummate gentleman. His passion for music and the arts started early in life. By age 15, encouraged by his high school band director, he wrote large scale works for band and orchestra. At age 21, he began to publish his music with commercial publishers, composing and arranging more than 500 works for bands and orchestras as well as film and television scores. John was the recipient of a number of grants, awards, and commissions from performing groups that ranged from K-12 to university bands and orchestras as well as professional ensembles including the Boston Pops Orchestra. John’s arrangements have been the cornerstone of the Michigan Marching Band’s halftime performances for over 41 years. As a freshman at the University of Michigan in 1975, John began his composition studies with Leslie Bassett, William Bolcom, and William Albright. A bassoonist, and tenor saxophonist in the MMB, John also holds the distinction of being the Marching Band’s first Donald R. Shepherd Scholarship recipient, awarded in 1978. This annual award is given to select junior and senior members of the MMB who have made exemplary contributions to the band throughout their time in the ensemble. There have now been more than 360 recipients of this honor. Inspired by this award John, and his wife Gail Ferguson Stout (BA ’81), established the Stout Family Marching Band Scholarship in 2004, which honors musical excellence and a strong commitment to the MMB. Both John and Gail have served as members of the Michigan Marching Band’s Elbel Club committee, co-chairs of the MMB’s Victors for Michigan Development Committee, members of the School of Music, Theatre & Dance campaign advisory committee, and as supporters and members of the University Musical Society’s Ambassadors and Board of Directors.

As an entrepreneur, John began his career in software development at the School of Music, Theatre and Dance as a student, first exploring the world of software using the school’s PLATO system, and then interning with Ford Motor Company. He helped create the award winning Video Voice, an early ’80s computer game that assisted deaf people to learn to speak more clearly. He worked for several years at the U-M Space Physics Research lab, helping create software for a weather satellite that eventually flew on the space shuttle. John founded Stout Systems in 1993; an award-winning corporation that provides expert level software, web and embedded systems development consulting and staffing services. During his years as an independent consultant, John established a track record of providing cutting-edge technology to clients. As a result, John was named the “Overall Winner” of Corp! Magazine’s 2013 “Entrepreneurs of Distinction” award. Stout Systems expanded on John and Gail’s philanthropy, sponsoring University Musical Society performances, downtown Detroit’s Tech Town, and multiple other organizations helping young entrepreneurs and IT professionals.

John is survived by his beloved Gail (nee Ferguson), his wife of 35 years; his children Michael (Amber) and Lauren; and his mother Mary Louise Stout (nee Copley). He was the kind brother of Susan L. Hammer (Tony) and Steven C. Stout (Colleen) and sisters-in law Patricia E. F. de Castrejn (Jos) and Carol Radliff (Peter), and nieces and nephews Ana Washington (Marvin), Lori Castrejn (KC Knipple), Joshua Castrejn (Rene), Nick Hammer, and nephew to Ruth Stout Hays and Dr. Paul B. Hays, as well as a wonderfully large extended family. John was preceeded in death by his father, William A. Stout. John’s devotion, care, and concern for the well-being of the University of Michigan Band Program has been inspirational and unforgettable. Through his many arrangements and compositions, we will be constantly reminded of John’s belief in arts education and the importance of music in our culture. Through his philanthropy, we will always be reminded of his love and support. We have lost a valiant victor who will be forever missed by those who had the honor and privilege to know him.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, April 23, 2017, at the Jack Roth Stadium Club at Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, Michigan. A short program will begin at 2 pm during what John wanted a party! Members of the Michigan Bands will perform. Memorial contributions in John’s honor may be made to: The Michigan Marching Band Elbel Club Fund #303403, providing valuable support for the most urgent funding priorities of the Michigan Marching Band (MMB), including support for MMB students. Revelli Hall, Att: Kimberly Baumgartner, 350 E. Hoover St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104-3707 The University Musical Society (UMS) Orchestral Residency Fund #925801, supporting UMS’s significant commitment to orchestral residencies on the U-M campus, including a unique three-year partnership with the New York Philharmonic. The University of Michigan Cancer Care Center Bone Marrow Transplant Unit Fund # 363382 Gifts ensure that severely ill cancer patients, whose conditions require that they undergo this highly specialized treatment, receive the most compassionate care, the benefits of multidisciplinary collaboration, and the latest research innovations. How To Make A Gift: Go to leadersandbest.umich.edu and click on the “Give Now” button. You can then enter the fund number directly into the search box.

Andy Harrison Thornton, 21, of Longwood, Florida passed away on March 25, 2017. Mr. Thornton was born on February 20, 1996 in Albany, Georgia. He was a student at Stetson University, and was an alumni of the Eta Sigma chapter at the University of Central Florida.  Mr. Thornton is survived by his loving parents Buddy and Wanda Sue Thornton; and sister Samantha Thornton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations are made via gofundme. All proceeds will be passed on to Anxiety and Depression Association of America and other causes specific to Andy.

Leonard A. Knight, Jr., born November 30, 1970, passed away on Mar. 14, 2017, at Bay Health Medical Center.  Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday Mar. 25, 2017, at 11 a.m., at “The Theatre” at Dover High School, 1 Dover High Dr., Dover, DE 19904; with visitation two hours prior to the service. There will also be a Musical Celebration of Life held on Friday, Mar. 24, 2017, at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Dover High School.