Willie Judson LaGrone

I am deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved teacher, mentor and friend. He found a way to reach us, support us and guide us even when we didn't recognize it. Times and memories with the SPHS band and Mr. LaGrone still bring a smile to my face, always will.

Jud and family, I did not ever have the opportunity to meet your grandfather and namesake. The messages on the guestbook are a testiment of an exordinary man. He sounds like he was a teacher in every sense of the word. He didn't just teach from the books, music, or flying. It sounds as if he taught about life. He was apparently respected by all who knew him. How awesome for you as a family that he belonged to you. Prayers for peace and comfort in your time of sorrow, but when you look toward the sky I bet you will be able to see him sore high with his new wings. God Bless.

Mr. Lagrone was a great band director. South Park always made a great showing on the field when he was there. One less musician in the world now that he's gone, but so many more because of him. My sympathy to his family.

I was so sorry to hear of Uncle Bill's passing. I have some great memories of hunting and fishing with him as I grew up. One thing about Uncle Bill - he never let adverse conditions stop him from having fun. I remember fishing with him in freezing rain and duck hunting when the mosquitos were so thick they were like an extra layer of clothes. But I seem to remember we always caught fish and got ducks, and had great times through all of it.

All of our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Minnette and family,

My deepest sympathy on your loss. My Father just passed 6 weeks ago. Willie was a real mentor to me. From teaching me to fly, to helping hire me to fly with him at Jeff. County Mosquito Control, he helped spark an interest in aviation which culminated in my career as a pilot with American Airlines. All the fishing trips in between flying, and of course, going out with you guys in search of the perfect fried oyster. Please know that your entire family is in our prayers for comfort and healing. May God keep you surrounded with loving friends during this time.

I never had Mr. LaGrone as my band director, but I have heard so many great things about him.....he will forever be in the memories of so many South Park "Greenies"..the family will be in my heart, thoughts and prayers!

My prayers and thoughts are with Mr. LaGrone's family.
Mr. LaGrone was my first marching band instructor and to this day. I always step with my left foot first.

left Sabrina left Gee McNabb
S.P.H.S '75

My prayers go out to all the family of Willie. I first met him in jr High school when I was in the band and I wanted to quit. He sat me down and talked about the high school band and I never ever wanted to quit again. His love for music and all the students was so deep. He taught me so much and I will always be thankful to him. He was so much more than just a teacher to all of us.

Jud,
So sorry to hear about your Grandfather. Know that he is watching over you and will always be with you. You know how much my Grandmother meant to me and I thank you again for being there in our time of grief. We're always here for you!!

Love always,
Leigh and Shelby