Willie Judson LaGrone

One of my regrets in life was I didn't get to go to the school where Willie taught aviation. I was very envious of the students who were so lucky to be mentored by a true gentleman. Many mornings I was pleasantly surprised by the yellow agwagon he flew as he buzzed our house. Pilots are plane people with a special air about them. I'll miss you my friend, mentor, aviation hero.

Coda Riley

Fortunately for me, my name was known to Mr. Lagrone through my sister Jacqui and my brother Mitch. Mr. Lagrone was their band director. Where musical talent had run out by the time I came along a deep desire to fly replaced it. I still remember the first day of aviation class at South Park H.S. and Mr. Lagrone looking over his reading glasses asking if I was Jacqui and Mitch’s little brother. To say the he impacted my life would be as big an understatement as saying the sun is a little warm. I wouldn’t be today what I am without him. He was my first flight instructor, my mentor, my friend and the most influential figure in my life. My father knew it and told him “I don’t know what would have happened with Carl if you hadn’t come along”. He forgave me for being a helicopter pilot. I hope he’ll forgive me for not know and running out of time. I had so much I still needed to say.

we miss you, willie.

Mr. LaGrone was an amazing teacher that took time to know each one of his students. He made you feel like you counted and made a difference with whatever it was you had to offer the world. I had related a story to my daughter earlier in the day, (2/16/11) because that's how his lessons were. Everyday lessons. A teacher in every since of the word. Soar Mr. Willie J. as we will with what you have been to us. 1972-1973.

To Mr.LaGrone's family. The SPHS class of 1969 are putting you in their prayers and thoughts.Mr. LaGrone was the best band director that South Park ever had.

Willie LaGrone was my high school band director from 1770-1973. I got in big trouble on more than one occasion. I guess you could say I kind of had a love/hate relationship during those years. I later had a Masters level music class with him at Lamar around 1980. After developing some maturity, I considered Willie a friend and colleague. I offer my condolences to his family. Steve Travis '74 SPHS

Mr. LaGrone was one of the toughest teachers I ever had in school, but he was geniune and caring and made sure we always gave our best in our efforts. He taught us so much more than just marching and how to play band instruments. He taught us not to settle for anything less than success in any of our accomplishments and he taught us respect that has stayed with us all these years. We all still swap stories about him and how he helped us all those years ago and yet we still follow the example he set before us. May God richly bless his family for sharing us all those nights and weekends of practices and performances that he was teaching us instead of being with them. He was a much beloved and respected teacher and friend.

My heart goes out to Mr. LaGrone's family. I played drums for Mr. LaGrone in the South Park High School Greenie Band in the early '70's. He was a very fine teacher, and cared about his band members.

To one of the most respected individuals I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. During my high school years in band he push each of us and pushed hard but it was well worth the pushes he gave in the long run. I will solely miss him.

Willie was like a second father to me in many ways. From the first time we met when I was in elementary school, to the last time I saw him - the day before he died - his friendship never waivered over almost 50 years. As a teacher he taught me so much more than music. As a pilot - he introduced me to the world of aviation and I know he held a special pride in so many of his students who earned their wings. Now he's earned the greatest wings there are and he'll forever be in flight with the angels.