Alumni Member Roster

Search Criteria

Years from to / Last name begins with

Include Students Parents


Richard Adair (Bass Guitar)

Student from 1974 to 1978, parent from 2004 to 2008

Post-GHS Biography:
can't get band out of my system... i now play piano, accordion, concertina, banjo, guitar, mandolin, uke, ... oh the list goes on!!!!

Favorite Band Memories:
Ward and Sparks making us behave and stay late! worked wonders! we became the best and we secretly adored them for it, but wouldn't admit it til we graduated!


Scott Adams (Trombone) (visit personal website)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Seattle, WA.

Favorite Band Memories:
My favorite memory would be when the band visited the Wet N Wild Theme Park in Orlando, Florida, when we were there for competition.


Richard Albritton (Trumpet)

Student from 1978 to 1981

Currently living in Huntsville


Lauren Anson (Flute/Piccolo)

Student from 2000 to 2004


Barbara Asquith Larson (Baritone)

Student from 1978 to 1982, parent from 2005 to 2007

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Last updated on Saturday, July 25, 2009


Mike Aycock (Trombone)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Post-GHS Biography:
I never quit band. I am still teaching band. I am currently the Director of Bands at Spain Park High School in Hoover, Alabama. I have 16 years experience in public schools as a director. I have 9 years of experience part time at the university level. I am also still heavily involved in church orchestras.

I married Lynell McMahan (great pianist) and we have 3 great kids (Rebecca-16, William-13 and David 12).

I would love to hear from any of you.

Favorite Band Memories:
Tooooooo many. It was so cool to be a part of a band like that.


Jay Bailey (Trumpet)

Student from 1979 to 1983


Clay Bandy (Trombone)

Student from 1976 to 1979

Currently living in Denver


Billy Bargetzi (Trombone) (visit personal website)

Student from 1983 to 1987

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Let's see... Disney, Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, Royal Caribbean, Disney again, Bourbon Street, lots of other stuff too...


Gianna Bargetzi Gimenez (French Horn)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Post-GHS Biography:
B.M. in Voice from Birmingham-Southern; Married Mike Gimenez in '89. Now voice teacher in Madison and work with hubby in Madison Community Chorus and Ovation Arts, non-profit arts groups. Two lovely children.


Mark Barnett (Euphonium)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Austin, TX

Post-GHS Biography:
Exhibit Design

Favorite Band Memories:
Marching Band, practice, marching competitions, practice, long bus trips in old smelly buses, more practice, concert competitions, Sparks destroying bull-horns on the tower railing while we stumbled around in marching band practice...

Last updated on Wednesday, December 17, 2008


Stefan Billmayer (French Horn)

Student from 1983 to 1986


jill blackstock scaggs (clarinet)

Student from 1973 to 1976

Currently living in woodstock.virginia

Post-GHS Biography:
mom, wife, lover of art

Favorite Band Memories:
all my friends and funny times

Last updated on Saturday, February 28, 2009


Stephen Blanton (Trombone)

Student from 1975 to 1979

Currently living in Charleston, SC

Last updated on Thursday, October 9, 2008


David Boling (Bass Clarinet)

Student from 1975 to 1978


Robert Bonds (Clarinet)

Student from 2008 to 2010

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Going to school at UAH.

Favorite Band Memories:
Friends

Last updated on Friday, August 6, 2010


Kathi Booher Hathcock (Clarinet)

Parent from 2008 to 2008

Currently living in Huntsville

Last updated on Sunday, May 11, 2008


Mindy Bradford Hanan (French Horn)

Student from 1980 to 1982

Currently living in Montgomery


Kim Brantley Ence (flute, rifle, drum major) (visit personal website)

Student from 1986 to 1990

Currently living in Columbus, GA


Brett Brewster (Trombone/Drum Major)

Student from 1992 to 1996

Currently living in Iuka, Mississippi

Post-GHS Biography:
Many...

Favorite Band Memories:
"The Band is Good it Can Do No Wrong"...
Being yelled at on the Tower.. A Lot.
Long bus rides.. for lots of reasons....
Mr. Connell jumping on and denting a vintage Mustang during practice one day...
The trip to Austria right after we graduated. I can not even get into that....
Overall a great experience. Mr. Vernon and Mr. Connell were two of my greatest teachers and influences.


Stephanie Brooks Aikin (Clarinet/Bass clarinet)

Student from 1990 to 1994

Post-GHS Biography:
Went to UAB and graduated with a degree in biology in 1999. Got married in 2000. Went to grad school at USA and got an MHS to practice as a physician assistant in 2003. Had identical twin girls April, 2004. Am currently home taking care of the little ones and loving every minute of it.

Favorite Band Memories:
Band trips. What could be better?


Cammy Brown Thornton (Percussion)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Huntersville, NC

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated in 1988 from NC State School of Design, married, lived in New York for 4 years, moved to Charlotte (Huntersville), NC, have 2 boys - currently 8 and 12, volunteer may too much, currently looking to get back into the design field only to find that I am out of touch with current technology (I doubt it) but , ouch, that makes me feel old.

Favorite Band Memories:
I remember fondly the football games, what fun we had, and of course all the bus rides to the competitions and going crazy at the hotels. Lots of friends all who I have lost touch with....

Last updated on Tuesday, October 21, 2008


Karen Burgess (Trombone)

Student from 1990 to 1994

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from Auburn in 2000 with degree in Chemical Engineering.


Sheri Burkhalter Bailey (fulte)

Student from 1982 to 1986

Favorite Band Memories:
Playing 1812. We almost lost it on stage and the judges didn't even notice.


Amy Byrd Harris (Percussion)

Student from 1988 to 1992

Currently living in Memphis, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated Auburn 1996, moved to Memphis, TN worked for International Paper and now currently a virtual employee of Hewitt Associates. Married in 2004, two step-children (one of which is expecting her first child).

Favorite Band Memories:
Multiple memories, unfortunately, as a member of the drumline, I'd probably be hunted down if I shared them with the general public. Where'd we put that Gold Drum anyway?


Kenneth Callas (Trumpet)

Student from 1980 to 1984


Amanda Campbell (colorguard)

Student from 2003 to 2005

Currently living in Huntsville, Al


Shannon Cathey (Clarinet)

Student from 1982 to 1986

Currently living in Gatlinburg, TN

Favorite Band Memories:
Wonderful friends, marching band camp, friday night football games, and much more.

Last updated on Monday, September 7, 2009


Christa Caughron Handley (French Horn)

Student from 1978 to 1982

Currently living in Pittsburgh, Pa

Last updated on Tuesday, January 26, 2010


Jana Clark (Clarinet, Oboe)

Parent from 2002 to 2009

Currently living in Hampton Cove

Last updated on Thursday, November 19, 2009


John Cochrane

Parent from 1996 to 2000


Cindy Coker (Trumpet)

Student from 1975 to 1979

Currently living in Huntspatch and Asheville NC

Post-GHS Biography:
Working at NASA/MSFC. Spending as much time as possible in Asheville for the past 5 yrs - hope to be living there fulltime in a handful of years.

just posted 35 MP3 tracks from albums that were available from '76, '78-'83 at:
https://public.me.com/avl56

Favorite Band Memories:
Every note of every contest piece we rehearsed to the nth degree. A bunch of folks older and younger than my class, a few of whom I've managed to keep up with, but many more that I can still see in my mind's eye. Rehearsals, sectionals, marching on fields and parking lots, games, trips, Music Theory, general horsing around. Had a ton of fun in all that hard work!

Last updated on Saturday, November 20, 2010


Casie Cole (Alto Sax)

Student from 2002 to 2006

Currently living in Tuscaloosa, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
I have been studying Criminal Justice and playing in the Million Dollar Band at The University of Alabama. In 2009 I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts and I will graduate with my Master's degree in May 2012.

Favorite Band Memories:
Marching competitions, Spring Trips, and playing challenging concert music

Last updated on Wednesday, April 13, 2011


Jeffrey Collins (Sibling)

Student from 1973 to 1976

Post-GHS Biography:
U.S Navy Submarine Force 18 yrs

Favorite Band Memories:
Marching contests (esp. Cleveland Tennesee).


Karl Collins (Parent)

Parent from 1971 to 1976

Currently living in Athens, Alabama


lynn connor (flute)

Student from 1985 to 1989

Currently living in Huntsville

Favorite Band Memories:
My favorite memories are of course all the band trips.


Sean Couch (Trumpet)

Student from 1995 to 1999

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Last updated on Tuesday, August 12, 2008


David Cowart (Percussion)

Student from 1982 to 1985

Currently living in Huntsville

Post-GHS Biography:
Playing in lots of different bar bands. To make money I conduct research for NASA.

Favorite Band Memories:
Drum competitions in GA.

Last updated on Wednesday, February 3, 2010


Dr. Ruth Y Davis (Flute/Piccolo)

Student from 1973 to 1976

Currently living in New York, NY


Jonathan Davis (Trombone (of course))

Student from 1983 to 1986

Currently living in Birmingham, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Went to GA Tech, graduated with bachelor's in electrical engineering (Go Jackets!). Missionary in Russia for 2 1/2 years. Returned to Abilene (TX) Christian Univ. for Master's in marriage and family therapy, followed up with Ph.D. from Purdue Univ. in West Lafayette, IN. Now teaching in Family Studies Dept. at Samford Univ. Married, with four kids, ranging from 16 years old to 3!

Favorite Band Memories:
Trip to Chicago, when we got a standing ovation from an audience of Band directors. LOVED Hindemeth's (sp) Symphony in Bb.

Last updated on Friday, September 12, 2008


Diana Dean Chapman (Flute)

Student from 1982 to 1986


Matt Dodson (Percussion)

Student from 1994 to 1998


Shannon Etheridge Miller (French horn, color guard) (visit personal website)

Student from 1999 to 2003

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
I graduated from UA in 2007 and married my college sweetheart, Nathan Miller, on 07/07/07. We live in Huntsville in the Five Points area and I work as the art director for a sewing magazine, which I love. I also freelance in graphic and web design. No kids yet!

Last updated on Tuesday, August 26, 2008


Charles Fabbrini (Saxophone) (visit personal website)

Student from 1993 to 1997

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Playing on computer! and working on computers

Favorite Band Memories:
The Spring trips! They rock, and watching the Football games!!


Jennifer Figg (Clarinet)

Student from 1995 to 1999

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated with an Associates degree in Liberal Arts in 2004, working full time as a Legal Secretary and going in school for my Bachelors in Business Administration. Getting married November 8, 2008 to my sweetheart Chris Lowery.

Last updated on Wednesday, June 4, 2008


Becky Fikes Waller (French Horn/Flag Corp)

Student from 1969 to 1972

Post-GHS Biography:
Music, Photography, Raising 2 sons
Football Mom, Band Parent

Favorite Band Memories:
Starting the Flag Corp
Winning Six Flags Contest
The 1st day with Ward @ Whitesburg Jr. High in 1968.
Rolling Yards!
The Horn Section
The" Pool Hall"


Erica Foster (Clarinet)

Student from 2001 to 2005

Currently living in The Boro, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
Currently attending Middle Tennessee State University, majoring in Recording Industry/Music Production & Technology. Marching with the Band of Blue (as a sousaphone- I'm serious!), and also in the symphonic band and clarinet choir. Also currently suffering as a student in the clarinet studio! (It's great, seriously.)

Favorite Band Memories:
Rushing the field at JSU in 2002. Who DIDN'T love that? Or the arguments about section calls while I was section leader.


Dan Furno (Trombone)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Currently living in Madison, AL

Last updated on Thursday, July 24, 2008


Jeff Gallman (Trumpet)

Student from 1993 to 1997

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from Georgia Tech with BS and MS in Aerospace Engineering.
Currently working as a flight test engineer for the US Army.
Graduated from the US Naval Test Pilot School in December 2008.

Favorite Band Memories:
Too many memories...

Last updated on Monday, November 3, 2008


Daniel Galyean (Snare)

Student from 1990 to 1994


Lisa Geiger Moon (alto clarinet)

Student from 1974 to 1978

Currently living in Chattanooga, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
I've been married 29 yrs and have 2 grown kids. Was a stay at home mom, went back to school when they entered school, graduated from Athens State with a degree in elementry ed. Back to staying at home with the dog and cat.

Favorite Band Memories:
the trips, kicking other bands butts at all the contest

Last updated on Monday, June 29, 2009


Tony Goodloe (Trumpet)

Student from 1977 to 1981

Post-GHS Biography:
College, job, marriage, kids - still circling.


Ryan Goodman (clarinet) (visit personal website)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Post-GHS Biography:
Living in Hueytown, Al (B'ham); married to a wonderful woman for 17 yrs; Raising 2 beautiful girls 12 and 9; Currently working as a Tech Support/VOIP Supervisor at Momentum Telecom

Favorite Band Memories:
Goal Line to Goal Line Fronts ROCK!!!


Greg Gee Greg Gee Gee (Trombone)

Student from 1971 to 1975


Bill Grissom (Baritone)

Student from 1983 to 1987

Currently living in Brentwood, TN


John Harchanko (Trombone (what else is there?))

Student from 1982 to 1986


Elizabeth Hardt Simmons (baritone)

Student from 1980 to 1982, parent from 2004 to 2005

Currently living in Huntsville, AL


Brian Harlan (Baritone)

Student from 1983 to 1987


Ashley Harris (Clarinet) (visit personal website)

Student from 2001 to 2005

Currently living in Auburn University

Post-GHS Biography:
college, generaly. Auburn University Marching Band and Symphonic Band, if you want band-related.

Favorite Band Memories:
Oi, where to start. Rookie camp, being leadership, Hawaii '04, numerous football games, section day '01, etc.


Jennifer Heath Ledbetter (Clarinet) (visit personal website)

Student from 2000 to 2004

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
I have graduated from college with a BS in Business Management and two minors: Contract Management and HR Management. I am currently working at the American Red Cross in Huntsville. In November of 2008, I married my high school sweetheart and band alum, David Ledbetter. We we live in Huntsville with our two cats, Alley and Bela, and our dog, Piper.

Favorite Band Memories:
Winning at Jack State and rushing the field, the lifelong friends I made, and meeting my husband!

Last updated on Wednesday, June 22, 2011


Lara Hettenhouse Kuschel

Student from 1984 to 1987

Currently living in Lawrenceville, GA


Wendy Hicks (Percussion)

Student from 1982 to 1985

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated With Honors From University Of North Alabama in Social Work
Worked for the University Of Florida for 6 years then Colorado State University for 5 years developing programs for "youth at risk" Ironic I know.... Returned home working with State Of Alabama while at the same time driving race cars for my fathers race team as well as his national sponsors and continuing in the family business at this time but no longer with the State Of Alabama. Thankfully....

Favorite Band Memories:
Learning the invaluable skill of having confidence in competition


Scott Hinckley (Trombone)

Student from 1983 to 1986

Currently living in Seattle, WA

Favorite Band Memories:
Williamsburg


Cyndi Horton Riehle (Flag Corps)

Student from 1975 to 1976

Currently living in Columbus, Ohio


Bud Hubbard (Trumpet)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Atlanta, GA


Brian Irelan (Trumpet) (visit personal website)

Student from 2001 to 2005

Currently living in Auburn/Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Auburn University Marching Band


Stuart Ivey (Trombone, Drum Major)

Student from 2001 to 2005

Currently living in Auburn, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
I am currently a full time student at Auburn University. I am double majoring in Music Education and Undeclared Pre-Medicine. I am the principal trombone of the Auburn Symphonic Band and Auburn Community Orchestra, share responsibilities as lead trombone in the AU Jazz Band, and play 3rd trombone for the Auburn Knights, a professional big band.

Favorite Band Memories:
Daytona Beach 02
Indianapolis 03
Alex City 03
Lassiter 04
Hawaii 04
Senior Year 04-05


Donald Jacobs (Percussion and Keyboards) (visit personal website)

Student from 1978 to 1980

Currently living in Lehigh Valley, PA

Post-GHS Biography:
Too much to list. Visit www.DonJacobs.org

Last updated on Saturday, March 13, 2010


Robert James (Trumpet)

Student from 1993 to 1994

Currently living in Madison, MS

Post-GHS Biography:
After graduation I went to Auburn and studied Civil Engineering. I was in the AU Marching Band from 94-99. Met my wife Julie in the band. We now live in Madison, MS. We have a 4 year old and a 3 week old (as of 1/16/09). I work for a civil engineering consultant and am working on a PhD at Mississippi State.

Favorite Band Memories:
I'm sure there are more but here is a few...breathing bags, Hilaritas and the amazing stand raising device (thanks Joe), the pajama game, Jazz band.

Last updated on Friday, January 16, 2009


Debra Jessick Woodrow (French Horn) (visit personal website)

Student from 1973 to 1977

Currently living in Prospect, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
Computers, travel, not playing much in years. Raised, bred, and showed Arabian horses for a long time, worked all over the country. Now settled near Huntsville in TN on 5 acres with two horses and lots of deer.

Favorite Band Memories:
Band trips!

Last updated on Tuesday, March 16, 2010


Amy Johnson Huffman (trumpet/baritone)

Student from 1983 to 1987

Currently living in Brentwood, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
I spent 10 years working in marketing after graduating from Belmont University. I'm married to David and now a stay-at-home mom to Drew (age 8) and Maggie (age 6).


Eric Johnson (Trumpet)

Student from 1972 to 1975

Post-GHS Biography:
BA in economics from the University of Florida in 1978. MPA from University of South Florida in 2001. Now teaching as an adjunct at USF in the MPA program and have spent 21 years in local government. I'm Director of Management and Budget for Hillsborough County.

Married for 28 years with a 23-year old daughter who appears to bes a permanent student in art.

Hobbies include backpacking and kayaking.

Favorite Band Memories:
Dave bouncing up and down on his chair flailing his baton. Passing out on the parking lot the first day of summer band practice.

Worst memories: Not having a clue about the fairer sex, but then again, I still don't.


Mary Johnson (Flute)

Student from 1979 to 1982

Currently living in Texas

Last updated on Thursday, June 26, 2008


Cherry Jones Hovik (trumpet)

Student from 1977 to 1981, parent from 2003 to 2007

Currently living in Huntsville


julie jones adams (trombone)

Student from 1982 to 1986

Currently living in madison, al

Post-GHS Biography:
Helping horses with their human problems from 1989 - 2007. Now, being my kids mom ( 3 year old boy).

Last updated on Monday, February 7, 2011


Don Keel (French Horn, Piano)

Student from 1979 to 1983

Married to GHS Band alum Ellen Little Keel

Currently living in Metro Atlanta (Johns Creek), GA

Last updated on Tuesday, May 13, 2008


Michael Kilpatrick (Percussion)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Currently living in Space


Eric Kirsch (Tuba)

Student from 1983 to 1987

Currently living in Tuscaloosa, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from the University of Alabama in 1992. Work for the University of Alabama Police Department. Married with two children.

Favorite Band Memories:
Chicago trip in 1986. The truck crew.


Jim Kirsch (Percussion)

Student from 1979 to 1983, parent from 2003 to 2006

Currently living in Huntsville

Last updated on Friday, July 4, 2008


Daniel Krenn (Percussion)

Student from 2003 to 2007

Currently living in Auburn/Huntsville


Lori Lang Lerude (french horn) (visit personal website)

Student from 1978 to 1982

Currently living in southern New Hampshire

Post-GHS Biography:
Married with 2 children. I am enjoying seeing my daughter join in the high school music scene as a member of the Concert Choir, and my son accompanying his middle school chorus. Active in the high school music boosters association and playing my horn a bit in a brass quintet at church.

Last updated on Wednesday, February 4, 2009


samantha lawrie (french horn)

Student from 1980 to 1984


Virginia Lawrie (Trombone)

Student from 1983 to 1984

Currently living in Harvest, AL


Jeremy Lawson (Trombone) (visit personal website)

Student from 1992 to 1996

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Out of high school, I attended Auburn University and finished my degree in Physics at The University of Alabama. Shortly after graduation, I was deployed as a member of the Alabama National Guard and served one year in Iraq as an Intelligence Officer under the 1st Cavalry Division. Once returning home, I worked as an Intelligence Analyst here in Huntsville, AL and am currently attending UAH for my second bachelors in Computer Science.

Favorite Band Memories:
The band trips were always some of the best times I had. My senior year was probably the best year for me as I really enjoyed what we played for the marching season.

Last updated on Friday, August 14, 2009


David Ledbetter (Trombone)

Student from 1998 to 2002

Married to GHS Band alum Jennifer Heath Ledbetter

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from Auburn with a BS in Industrial and Systems Engineering. Married Jennifer on 11/22/2008. Currently, living in Huntsville and working at TriVector Services as a Systems Engineer.

Last updated on Wednesday, June 22, 2011


Dorma Lee Hutcheson (Alto clarinet)

Student from 1973 to 1977

Post-GHS Biography:
I graduated with a degree in Dental Hygiene and worked in private practice until 2000. I now work for the US Postal Service in Mentone and Fort Payne, AL. Terry and I have been married 22 years and have three grandchildren by his daughter Janet.


Robert Lee (Baritone)

Student from 1983 to 1987

Currently living in Leesburg, VA

Post-GHS Biography:
I work for the US Navy. I married Deidra Shuck and we have two children, Kathrine and Joshua.

Last updated on Thursday, July 14, 2011


Julie Leonard (Trumpet)

Student from 1984 to 1988


Ellen Little Keel (Flute)

Student from 1979 to 1983

Currently living in metro-Atlanta


Paolo Longo (Sax)

Student from 1983 to 1987


Todd Ludwig (French Horn)

Student from 1995 to 1999

Currently living in Birmingham, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Went to Auburn for 1 year, was in the band. Married an Auburn grad, Natalie. We have a daughter and live right outside of Birmingham, AL. I work as an Assistant Network Administrator for a company called Robins & Morton.

Favorite Band Memories:
Doing countless pushups because of talking. Eric Veren and I were constantly in trouble for talking, whether by section leaders, Theo, or Bill. Those were good times!

Last updated on Sunday, September 14, 2008


Andrew Lynch (Clarinet)

Student from 1998 to 2002


Karen Lynn Klasing (Flag Corp)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Currently living in Montgomery

Post-GHS Biography:
Raising 3 kids and working part time as an RN

Favorite Band Memories:
Being on the best Flag Corp. ever! Band trips


Anna Lyon Grace (Flute, Aux. Drumline)

Student from 1992 to 1996

Currently living in Huntsville

Post-GHS Biography:
Still doin' music stuff!!

Last updated on Friday, February 27, 2009


Steven MacNeil (Clarinet, Bass Clarinet)

Student from 2002 to 2006

Currently living in Tucaloosa, AL

Favorite Band Memories:
Every moment of those four years, from being a lowly freshman, to a section leader, and finally a drum major. The long practices, the longer bus rides (San Antonio), and the rewarding competitions.


Melanie Madden (Clarinet)

Student from 1992 to 1996

Currently living in St. Paul,MN


Phyllis Maddix Slivka (Clarinet)

Student from 1979 to 1983

Currently living in Bonaire, GA

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from Auburn with a B.S. in Chemistry. I'm a chemist at
Robins Air Force Base, GA. I married Michael Slivka in Feb. 1994 and
our daughter, Anna, was born in Sep. 1995. Anna is playing tenor sax
in middle school, so I am now a band parent. After many years, I got
my clarinet out and started playing in my church orchestra (Second
Baptist Church in Warner Robins, GA).

Favorite Band Memories:
The goal line to goal line company front was always awesome!

Last updated on Wednesday, February 18, 2009


Mindy MaGill Hill (Flute)

Student from 1989 to 1991

Currently living in Tigard Oregon

Post-GHS Biography:
Updated Oct. 2009
I have been married for nine years to my wonderful husband I met at
Oregon State. I graduated in 1998 with a Business Admin. degree with
an option in International Business and a minor in Spanish. My first
job was in accounts payable, and it remained that way until my life got
turned upside down in 2007. I was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain
Syndrome or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. It is a non curable nerve
disorder. For anyone that wants to know more information Wikipedia has
a good description. Anyways, my life has been derailed big time, but
I have great long distance support from my Mom, and my brother, Bill.
The other note is Mr. MaGill, Bill and my Dad passed away in 2006. Our
Dad was given partial military honors, and is buried in Arlington
National Cemetery. It is a great honor for us to know that after 20
years of military service in the Army, he is where he belongs. The
greatest joy of my life are my two nephews Justin and Gavin. I do not
get to see them often because Bill, Liz (his wife), and the boys live
in Vermont. Now that my life has changed, I spend most of my time
serving for Southwest Bible Church in Beaverton Oregon. I became a
Christian in 2002. It has really helped me to get a new perspective
on life. There are no children. Unfortunately, there will not be any
children with my health being so unstable from day-to-day. My husband
and I have our four legged children Jazz and Chase. They are Pembrooke
Welsh Corgis.

Favorite Band Memories:
The Summer Band Camps in the hot and humid weather. The breathing
bags. A very long band trip to and from Virginia Beach. I, also,
remember Bill and I talking during after school marching band when we
were standing side by side during one of the formations. We would
always get told by Mr. Connell to stop talking.

Last updated on Friday, October 9, 2009


kelly manchego crase (drums)

Student from 1984 to 1988


Ellen Marchman

Student from 1990 to 1994

Currently living in Birmingham, AL


Richard Marx (Trumpet)

Student from 1983 to 1986


Tracy McAbee Pheneger

Student from 1980 to 1984


William McCleskey (Trombone)

Student from 1991 to 1995

Currently living in Chicago, IL


Lynn McIntosh Albritton (horn)

Student from 1980 to 1984


Gina McKannan Ramsey (Flute)

Student from 1972 to 1975

Currently living in Arab, Alabama

Post-GHS Biography:
I am married and have 6 children and 5 grandchildren. Three children still at home keep me very busy. I worked in the biotech industry until a couple years ago when I started and co-own a biotech company. My husband and I raise gaited horse for trailriding. My daughter is a freshman in the Brewer High School Band the two boys are athletes.

Last updated on Tuesday, December 16, 2008


Sarah Meadows (Saxophone, Front Ensemble)

Student from 1992 to 1996

Post-GHS Biography:
Married an Auburn grad student in 2000, and got a biology degree after changing my major at Auburn and transferring to UAH. Love biology, hated engineering! Moved to Vermont because husband was in law school, and we experienced northern New England winters for 4 years out in the woods, 5 miles from any pavement, almost an hour away from a grocery store. Soon after arriving, I was able to get a cool job in a research lab at Dartmouth in immunology - a great experience. Now living with my husband in Durham, NC (the home of Branford Marsalis, incidentally); working at Duke University with the Pediatric Blood and Bone Marrow Transplant group in their stem cell lab. I am looking to get back into a more basic science research-oriented field though, because I've figured out it's my real love. The Research Triangle area here has lots of cool job and school opportunities, and I am looking forward to exploring them more.

Favorite Band Memories:
Chicago and Austria of course... and the retirement community where we played Glen Miller and everyone danced. I hope everyone is doing well! Please drop me a note sometime!


Margaret Medley Shaner (Color guard, french horn)

Student from 1990 to 1994

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Spent 2 years at University of Mobile, came home and finished at Athens State University. Apparently the beach was more inviting that actual classes, hence the return home. Got BS in math, got a job at Teledyne Brown Engineering and still work there on GMD (missile defense). Married in 11/2002, no kids, 1 cat, and 1 dog.

Favorite Band Memories:
Lots of general memories: guard camp, band camp, early morning guard practices (like 6 am, 3 times a week!) every summer. The band trips were always fun though I reall only remember a few of them. Must have blocked them from my memory ;)

Last updated on Monday, June 9, 2008


Christene Michael Gibbons (Alto Sax)

Student from 1990 to 1994

Currently living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from Auburn Univ. in 1998 with a BA in Criminal Justice and Political Science.

Favorite Band Memories:
Jazz Band class and jazz band trips.

Last updated on Tuesday, October 4, 2011


Chris Mitchell (Horn (Section Leader 95-96), tru)

Student from 1992 to 1996

Currently living in Montgomery, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
After Grissom, I spent 5 years at Auburn University getting a BA in Operations Management. I got married to another Auburn alumnus received an Officer's Commission in the US Air Force. After spending 6 years as a Program Manager in Dayton, OH, and Montgomery, AL, I separated from Active Duty. I'm currently a Program Manager for VT Miltope Corporation, a manufacturer of ruggedized laptops for the military and the world's largest supplier of airborne cockpit thermal printers (commercial aviation and military applications). We have a daughter, Molly, who will be 4 on Halloween of this year (2008). We live in Pike Road, AL (just East of Montgomery), and we are active members of Frazer UMC. It would be great to hear from anyone from the '92-'96 years!

Favorite Band Memories:
The pride of being associated with such a top-notch and classy organization. "Time Storm" in Chicago rocked. Also, marching the company fronts! Great stuff!

Last updated on Monday, May 12, 2008


Courtney Mitchell Doering (Colorguard/clarinet) (visit personal website)

Student from 1994 to 1997

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
2 years of drum corps ('99 Magic, '00 Colts);
4 years in Auburn University bands;
Married Mark Doering in June, 2003;
Started working with Stan and the Grissom guard in fall '04 and get to continue this season;
Became an aunt last Halloween when brother, Chris, & wife had their first daughter, Molly


Jason Moe (Trumpet)

Student from 1993 to 1997

Currently living in Huntsville, Al

Post-GHS Biography:
I pretty much stayed in the Huntsville area since graduation. I held a number of jobs but eventually found myself in a nice company in town. I keep myself busy and active between my writings, hiking, and photography.

Favorite Band Memories:
My fondest memory was my Senior year band trip to Chicago. I love Chicago and was very happy to hear that we were going back to the windy city. The pressures of previous trips, the wrath of the directors, the fear of not maintaining the perfection associated with the band, and proving to myself that I can accomplish great things didn't feel so heavy to me. They were still there but seemed to be in the shadows of something bigger: a realization that this was the last of it. This was the last time to see all of my friends together in the same way, the last time to be apart of this organization, the last relatively carefree time before the weight of other, larger responsibilities (college, career, family) were placed on my shoulders. Understanding that this trip wasn't just an opportunity to show a few judges that we were the best but instead showing ourselves that we, too were the best gave me the motivation to try my hardest while facing life's challenges. Grissom High School Band, Mr. Connell, Mr. Vernon, my friends, my classmates, my family, thank you for the memorable places and the most amazing time of my life.

Last updated on Tuesday, June 1, 2010


Jim Montgomery (Trombone)

Student from 1976 to 1980

Currently living in Memphis, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
I attended the University of North Alabama and received my degree in Commercial Music. I was in the marching band at UNA for a semester, but as others have said, the Grissom marching band is a hard act to follow. I moved to Los Angeles in 1985 to work for an entertainment law firm whose clients included Roy Orbison, Paul Anka, Elton John, Gloria Estefan, Kenny Rogers, Frank Zappa, Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac, and others. I received a paralegal certificate from UCLA and married Ellen Davidson (Grissom Class of '82)in December of 1991. We moved back to the South from California in July of 1993. I have been working as a paralegal in Intellectual Property in Memphis, Tennessee since March of 1994. I have two daughters, Evelyn Mary, born August 13, 1997 and Sarah Elizabeth, born April 24, 2001.

Favorite Band Memories:
There are so many great memories. Probably one of the first things that I remember is when I was a freshman, the marching band went to a contest in Tupelo, MS. The band covered the entire sideline--goal line to goal line. The announcer introduced the band, said that Grissom is a class triple A or quadruple A school or whatever it was, which meant the school had a student population of 2500 or whatever it was and the announcer went on to say "and from the looks of it, most of them are in the band!" Another funny memory was the year that Mr. Ward chose the song "Send in The Clowns" for the Homecoming Court portion of the halftime show.

Last updated on Tuesday, February 24, 2009


brian moore (trumpet)

Student from 1991 to 1995

Post-GHS Biography:
i have worked a lot of restaurant jobs and finally found one to make a career out of. i am a manager at ryans steak house in huntsville. i am married to a wonderful woman named tonyia, and have two wonderful children samantha and conner.


Sandra Moore Corn (Color Guard)

Student from 1970 to 1972

Currently living in Arab, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
3 children (2 girls, 1 boy), band parent, soccer mom, photo restoration, genealogy, work and more work.


Tom Moseley (Trombone)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Atlanta, GA


heather myres vatter (color guard)

Student from 1994 to 1997


Grant Nail (Trombone)

Student from 2001 to 2002


Carol Nelson Garland (oboe)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Post-GHS Biography:
I am married to a fellow engineer and work as a safety representative for a chemical company. We have three children - two are in high school and one is in second grade. Our son plays clarinet in the DB band. I am still playing the oboe in my church's orchestra, which is a lot of fun.

Favorite Band Memories:
I remember listening to the sound "scoop" off the mountains during summer band, marching in the senior parking lot, Mr. Sparks smashing many bullhorns and batons, feeling "one" with the music, taking fun trips with friends, having Mrs. Hill knock on our door in DC because we were laughing too loudly, getting "spit baths" when Mr. Sparks yelled at the trumpets, and experiencing the pure joy of playing awesome music in a truly great band.


Kevin Nolen (Percussion)

Student from 1990 to 1994

Currently living in Nashville, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
"Kevin Nolen is the newly appointed Marching Percussion Director at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. In addition to his work at Austin Peay, he is also on percussion staff with the twenty-four time Tennessee State Champion McGavock High School Marching Band in Nashville and will be serving as Percussion Judge for the 2010 Mid-South Marching Invitational.

Kevin attended Jacksonville State University where he studied percussion under Mr. Tracy Tyler and Mr. Clint Gillespie. While at JSU he was a member of the snare line with both the Marching Southerners (1996-1998) and the JSU PASIC Drumline (1998-1999). The PASIC line finished in 2nd place in 1998 and were the 1999 PASIC College Drumline Champions, along with High Snare recipients. He was a member of the 1997 Phantom Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps and an instructor with the Spirit of Atlanta Drum & Bugle Corps (2000-2001) before taking time off from the activity in 2002 to focus on his family.

In 2009, Kevin returned to teaching when songwriting led him to Nashville and he joined the percussion staff at McGavock alongside fellow Innovative Percussion Artist Joe Fant, Jason Palmer and Rebecca Tatarsky. He has worked with programs in Alabama, Indiana, Illinois and Tennessee as an instructor, writer, consultant and clinician. Kevin's former students have gone on to become members of Blast!, DCI Caption Heads and successful band directors and instructors in their own right. He is a native of Huntsville, AL and currently splits his time between Nashville and Huntsville in order to devote time to his precious twin daughters, Kylie and Alyssa."

Last updated on Saturday, September 18, 2010


Margie O'Donnell Zoladz (trumpet)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Huntsville

Last updated on Thursday, September 18, 2008


Maureen O'Donnell Hein (Flute)

Student from 1983 to 1987

Post-GHS Biography:
Married, 2 kids, a boy and a girl. Bachelor's of Music degree from FSU, MS degree in counseling from Georgia State. I've worked as a music therapist and licensed counselor for 13 years, since I moved to Atlanta. Now I'm at home since having my 2nd child in May 2006 and I teach piano lessons. I've been playing principal flute in a chamber orchestra in metro Atlanta for 13 years and do freelance playing around town, mostly weddings. I LOVE travelling and am very happy to have a husband who works for an airline so we can fly overseas cheap!

Favorite Band Memories:
I'd have to say it was sneaking off to the Sears Tower at night when we were in Chicago. The mixed reaction we got from the chaperones when we got back was well worth freezing our butts off!


Lauren Obermann Dauro (Bassoon/Clarinet/Sax/Colorguard)

Student from 2000 to 2003

Currently living in Birmingham, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
I went to Samford University where I was involved in every instrumental group possible, and then UA for grad school. I married a trumpet player from Hazel Green High School. I am now a registered dietitian working as the Assistant Professor of Holistic Nutrition at Clayton College of Natural Health.

Favorite Band Memories:
Macy's Parade, North Sea Jazz Festival

Last updated on Tuesday, September 15, 2009


Patty Owen (Flute)

Student from 1995 to 1999

Favorite Band Memories:
Fondest memories are all the achievements we had while I was there. All the hard work and long hours always paid off.

Last updated on Sunday, September 21, 2008


Tim Palmer (trombone)

Student from 1978 to 1981

Married to GHS Band alum Debra Rankin Palmer

Currently living in Huntsville

Post-GHS Biography:
Working, the usual ;)

Last updated on Monday, May 11, 2009


Matthew Palmier (Flute)

Student from 2004 to 2008

Currently living in Huntsville

Post-GHS Biography:
I am attending calhoun community college taking basic classes to transfer into UAB.

Favorite Band Memories:
The social unity of the band. Everyone knew everyone and shared a common love, band.

Last updated on Saturday, November 29, 2008


Emily Parker

Student from 1999 to 2003

Currently living in Birmingham, AL

Last updated on Sunday, August 31, 2008


Penny Parker Irelan (Oboe)

Student from 1974 to 1978, parent from 2001 to 2006

Currently living in Huntsville


Jeremy Paul (Percussion / Oboe)

Student from 1990 to 1993

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from Gainesville HS in 1994 after they tossed out seven credits I had earned at Grissom. Graduated from the Art institute in Tampa in 96 and still living in Gainesville. I've been playing the bagpipes since 1999 and love it.

Favorite Band Memories:
My favorite memories. . . The everlasting bus ride to Virginia Beach, (are we there yet?) The competitions. Band camp (yes I said band camp!) All of the great times on drumline, getting banned from the 1993 yearbook (it's your fault Deke!) I only wished I could have graduated from Grissom, but it just wasn't meant to be.


Carrie Pierce Archambault (flute/piccolo & aux. percuss)

Student from 1991 to 1994

Currently living in Atlanta

Post-GHS Biography:
Well, I tried my hand (or flute rather) with Dr. Cohen at Bama but couldn't take her! I transfered to UAH until I got married. We promptly moved to Atlanta and had 4 kids! (I'm still in shock too!) I teach piano, flute and keyboard percussion (I have my own marimba!) to an ever-changing studio of musicians. I've led a few choirs but find I really enjoy just singing in them. I work for the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners on the licensing exam. I spend a good bit of time volunteering at church, mostly music or teaching of course! My kiddos are all in school now and I'm a PTA officer. For fun I Irish Dance, Bellydance and hunt you all down on facebook. So, between my friends, family & assorted responsibilities, I haven't a free moment to myself and wouldn't have it any other way!

Favorite Band Memories:
So many memories...like, Not having to use a breathing bag during marching season thanks to drumline. Playing in the orchestra for the musicals. Lugging pounds of percussion equipment through England and France when up until two weeks before I was going to play piccolo. Getting snowed in the Heart of Auburn Hotel! But mostly it's the echoes of applause. Really great applause, a standing ovation, it just doesn't get much better than that. Thanks to Mr. Connell, Mr. Vernon and all the talented people I had the privilege to play with that made that happen many, many times over!

Last updated on Saturday, December 6, 2008


Dale Powers (Percussion)

Student from 1972 to 1976

Currently living in Rowlett, TX

Last updated on Monday, May 30, 2011


Ray Preston (Trumpet)

Student from 2004 to 2009

Post-GHS Biography:
Attending college at Auburn University

Last updated on Tuesday, April 6, 2010


Debra Rankin Palmer (jazz vocal)

Student from 1979 to 1981

Married to GHS Band alum Tim Palmer

Last updated on Sunday, March 6, 2011


Jacqui Reaves Howell (Flute)

Student from 1976 to 1980, parent from 1996 to 2006


Erika Reed Branch (clarinet)

Student from 1992 to 1996

Currently living in Biloxi, MS

Post-GHS Biography:
Since I graduated, I went on to college at the Unversity of Alabama, where I was a music major and stayed involved in the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Chamber music groups, orchestra, and even the Millon Dollar Band, in which I marched with a tenor saxophone. I went on to get my Master's degree in music performance at the University of Southern Mississippi. After graduating, I worked various unpleasant jobs before I decided to go the alternate route and get my teaching certificate. I am now a middle school band director in Biloxi, MS.
I got married on April 8, 2006.
I play with various orchestra groups including the Gulf Coast Symphony and the Mobile Symphony.


Bo Rist (Trumpet)

Student from 1982 to 1986

Currently living in Knoxville, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
Spent first year of college at UT with Sparks and Jeff Budge, Pete Townsend, and others. Then transferred to Auburn University. Got a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Worked for a Germany automotive parts company then in the medical industry designing PET scanners. Now I work for a Japanese automotive parts company, DENSO.

Favorite Band Memories:
Riding around in John's '73 VW Thing through the back parking during band practice with the "Boffo" trumpets.


Robby Roberts (Percussion)

Student from 1978 to 1981

Post-GHS Biography:
I recently freed myself from incarceration in the Juarez Mexico city jail, where I was wrongly accused of trying to overthrow the local Government (trust me, it's really pretty simple, just $5 U.S. and a nice smile). I'm currently on my way to the North Dakota/Canadian border to make sure that those Damn Canadians stay on their side. You can all sleep well tonight just knowing that those fascist Canucks won't be streaming across the border slinging lead on my watch. This of course is all just a hobby as I use to spend most of my time in Orlando Florida working for The Golf Channel, FOX Sports and Nickelodeon, before semi-retiring back to Alabama in 2004. I did graduate from The University of Alabama in 1984 with a degree in Broadcasting. It wasn't that difficult as I graduated in only three years. I was a broadcast major, how hard could it be?...."What did you think of that TV show? You liked it!?....Good here's your diploma." I must have learned something because I got those great cable gigs, and they thought I knew what I was doing. I did finally get married, but I waited a long time (why didn't you call!?). For hobbies, I officiated college football for C-USA and use to Water Ski every day on the lake behind my Florida house before a bad knee injury brought me to a grinding halt. As far as music goes, I did march with the 1981 Guardsmen Drum & bugle Corp. (remember them), the 1980 Spirit of Atlanta Drum and Bugle Corp. & The Million Dollar Band (though my presence devalued them quite a bit). I did play in a couple of other Rock style bands most notably "Reign" & "Ernie Douglas on Dope", before walking away from my music career, much to the delight of everyone I know, and a few I didn't. This of course allows me much more time to protect your American way of life from the invading Canadian horde.

Favorite Band Memories:
The chicks...you know who you are.


Dana Robison Sanders (Trumpet, French Horn, Flag Corp)

Student from 1988 to 1991

Currently living in Albertville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
I have been working the past ten years as a nurse with a neurologist in Albertville. I have two children, Ty age 10 and Hannah Grace age 6. My spare time is spent at the ballpark with them. I am still involved in music but vocally. I have been the children's choir director at my church for the past several years but took the last year off. I am actively involved in my church choir.

Favorite Band Memories:
Trips, trips and more trips


Dana Robison Sanders (Flag Corp,Trumpet, French Horn)

Student from 1988 to 1991

Currently living in Albertville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
I am currently working as a school nurse at Albertville High School.

Favorite Band Memories:
BAND TRIPS!!!!!

Last updated on Tuesday, October 7, 2008


Sarah Rowell Orton (Clarinet)

Student from 1998 to 2001

Currently living in Flagstaff, AZ

Post-GHS Biography:
I went to the U of Alabama and majored in Music Ed. I taught one year of High school band, 2 years of elementary school band, and am now married and am a stay at home mom. I have one little baby boy!

Favorite Band Memories:
HAHA, TOO many.

Last updated on Wednesday, October 8, 2008


Debbie Russell Ledbetter (trombone)

Student from 1972 to 1976, parent from 1998 to 2005


David Rutland (Trombone)

Student from 1976 to 1979

Currently living in Atlanta GA


Jennifer Schultz Lucas (Trumpet)

Student from 1995 to 1999

Currently living in Hazel Green, AL


Kathy Scoggins Wise (clarinet) (visit personal website)

Student from 1984 to 1988

Currently living in Hendersonville, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
BS in Economics from Centre College, Danville, KY, then to Opryland Culinary School, cheffing around Nashville for years, then opened a Wedding Cake business and in Jan 2006 opened a cake and candy supply store where I sell supplies (duh) and teach classes.

Favorite Band Memories:
Band trips!

Last updated on Thursday, October 16, 2008


Mark Shrout (Trombone)

Student from 1976 to 1980

Currently living in Madison

Post-GHS Biography:
Currently working with Cincinnati Insurance Company as a field adjuster

Last updated on Wednesday, December 9, 2009


Phillip Shrout (Trombone) (visit personal website)

Student from 1974 to 1978

Currently living in Madison


Rex Simmons (Euphonium) (visit personal website)

Student from 1979 to 1983, parent from 2004 to 2008

Married to GHS Band alum Elizabeth Hardt Simmons

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Went on to AU to major in EE while working as a co-op student at Intergraph in Huntsville, then went to work there full-time as a software application developer after AU graduation. Still at Intergraph after all these years, currently working as the manager of our E911 computer-aided dispatching application (although I still haven't completely given up my software development efforts).

Married GHS band sweetheart Elizabeth Hardt in 1987 and have two children born in 1990 and 1992. Spent 4 great years as a GHS band parent, two of which as the website administrator for the band's site, but that era is now over as well with my son's graduation and my daughter's discontinuation of band to pursue her first love...equestrian activities. Who knows, maybe someday I'll find myself the proud grandparent of a GHS band student. ;)

Favorite Band Memories:
There just isn't enough room here, but if your morbid curiosity gets the better of you, visit my web site for the details. :)

Last updated on Thursday, June 19, 2008


Valerie Simmons Reynolds (Flute)

Student from 1973 to 1975

Post-GHS Biography:
College, marriage five daughters, playing the flute with church praise band

Favorite Band Memories:
Winning southeastern regionals, solo and ensemble contests and medals, six flags after contests, and bus ride romances Jill, Sandy, and Lin!


Chris Sims (Trombone)

Student from 1996 to 2000


Adam Smith (Trumpet)

Student from 2002 to 2006

Post-GHS Biography:
college at the University of Alabama


Pete Smith (Percussion) (visit personal website)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Currently living in Hopewell, NJ

Post-GHS Biography:
Went to grad school in San Diego, and eventually made my way east to NJ, where I have done pharmaceutical market research for nearly 10 years.

Favorite Band Memories:
Dave, Mike, Tobin, Lee, Milton.... too many memories to list. "No chops!", Villa Rica, "Neil Peart rules!", "Wooooosh!" <--- Thanks Dave!


Sara Smith Skillen (Clarinet)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Franklin, TN


Todd Smith (Alto Saxophone)

Student from 1975 to 1978

Currently living in Mobile, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Boating and working.

Favorite Band Memories:
The bus trips, what else?

Last updated on Friday, July 16, 2010


Amy Sponsler (clarinet / guard)

Student from 1999 to 2003


John Stanton (Trumpet)

Student from 1975 to 1978

Currently living in Huntsville, Alabama

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from UAH in 1983
Employed by UAH 1985-present

Favorite Band Memories:
Marching in 90+ degree weather, marching in freezing weather, being called "idiots" by Dave Ward, watching the little Drum Major Nazis blow there little whistles and rant and rave. Hmm, is there anything else... yeah, there was one thing. Watching our football team fall on their faces each game. The funny part is they walked around the following week acting like they were a bunch of Gods. Gods? Yeah right, a bunch of fat little Buddas who should have spent more time on the field instead of sipping Gatoraide on the bench.


Rudy Stefancik (Trumpet)

Student from 1973 to 1974

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from Deer Park H.S. in Deer Park, TX (SE of Houston) in 1975. Made All-Region Band and earned Class 1 Solo medal. Graduated BA cum laude in Microbiology at U. of Texas at Austin in 78 and with MD from U. of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston in 82. Did Internship in Fort Worth and finished Residency in Pathology in Chicago in 87. Practiced 11 years in Upper Peninsula of MI. Sat on boards of MI St Medical Society and MI Public School Retirement System as well as GOP State Committee. Attended 2 GOP National Conventions (Houston 92 & San Diego 96) Have practiced in Pendleton, OR since 2002.

Favorite Band Memories:
Winning 6 Flags 1974. Turning green from Peach Schnapps & 5 cent King Edward cigars at 6 Flags 73. Marching at Legion Field in playoffs during run to State Championship game. Just having the privilege to move straight into the A Band coming from Texas and the way Jim Jernagan and Eric Johnson embraced me as a friend.


Susan Steimle Roberts (Sax/Rifle)

Student from 1986 to 1990

Currently living in Birmingham, AL

Last updated on Wednesday, July 2, 2008


Mark Stettler (Clarinet)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Portland, Oregon

Post-GHS Biography:
3 degrees in engineering, working at Intel Corporation in Portland, Oregon ever since. Married Deborah Sims (clarinet, 1986), we have three kids: Connor, Ian, and McKenna. I don't play clarinet much anymore (a little guitar and a little trumpet--that's right, I am becoming a traitorous "brasshole"), but before kids, I did a lot of musical theatre and acting at local community theatres. I am embarrassed to say I have huge karaoke library.

Favorite Band Memories:
All the people that I met at band; I still keep in touch with some of them. I have been involved with quite a few musical organizations since Grissom, and my admiration for what Mr. Sparks was able to accomplish has really grown!

Last updated on Wednesday, June 18, 2008


Lynn Stover (Clarinet/Flag Corps) (visit personal website)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Post-GHS Biography:
Currently living in Savannah, Georgia. Employed at Memorial Health University Medical Center in Pediatrics/Neonatal Intensive Care and teach at Armstrong Atlantic State University, and have my own legal consulting business. Active with the Junior League of Savannah. Have been enjoying two new hobbies: photography and Harley riding. Yes, I even have chaps and a dew rag! I guess that is what turing 40 does to you! John and I have been all over the eastern United States on the Harley, including the Trail of Tears ride from Chattanooga to Florence, AL, Savannah to Kitty Hawk on the Outer Banks, NC, and my favorite was the Blue Ridge Parkway from GA-NC-VA.

Favorite Band Memories:
Enjoying the challenge of a difficult piece of music and ending up playing it together with the band like a well oiled music machine.

Last updated on Tuesday, June 10, 2008


Jessica Stuckey (flute/piccolo)

Student from 2003 to 2007


Elaine Suever (Trumpet)

Student from 2002 to 2006


Jonathan Suever (Percussion)

Student from 2000 to 2004


Stuart Tankesley (Trumpet)

Student from 1998 to 2002

Currently living in Huntsville

Post-GHS Biography:
After graduation, I attended The University of Alabama for 6 years - receiving my bachelors and masters in music education. I currently teach band and choir at Discovery Middle School in Madison.

Favorite Band Memories:
My favorite recollection of the GHS band were the unbelievable performances given during my four years including those at Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, North Sea Jazz Festival in the Netherlands, and BOA in Indianapolis. The people that I met through the band are still some of my closest friends.

Last updated on Sunday, October 19, 2008


Stan Thomas (clarinet/baritone)

Student from 1979 to 1983


Andrew Thomason (Alto Sax)

Student from 1990 to 1994

Currently living in Nashville, TN


Kristen Thompson Eriksen (Flag Corp)

Student from 1983 to 1986

Post-GHS Biography:
6th grade math teacher in Texas.

Favorite Band Memories:
Marching every morning from 6 am to noon!


Chris Toda (Clarinet) (visit personal website)

Student from 1992 to 1994

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Went into the "new media" design field in LA in '96, with mostly freelance agency work (Disney, Westwood One, Korean Airlines), also Information Technology research and development. Worked my way up to Creative Director. Took a vacation then became a snowboard instructor at Mt. Hood Oregon. Joined the Marine Corps (infantry), running a mobile CAAT plt conducting counter insurgency operations throughout the Anbar province IZ. Became an Urban warfare instructor back home and also worked the intelligence side. Currently studying architecture and design while relaxing back in Huntsville. I plan on attending more school and starting a motorsports composite company. Still single with no children as I love to travel too much!

Favorite Band Memories:
I remember one late summer practice, when after multiple runs, finally hit the Phantom of the Opera number with gusto and after that last haunting note, watching the glow of the sunset pour onto the mountains and clouds and the burst of wind hitting us. Quite a moment. Loved the experience and look back to this day as the best parts of childhood. By the time I made A band, I left to finish my Jr/Sr. year in SoCal and missed it. If anyone wants to keep in touch, feel free to email.

Last updated on Thursday, April 30, 2009


Irene Trzeciak Daughenbaugh (Flute)

Student from 1983 to 1987


Karrie Trzeciak Marsh (Flute)

Student from 1979 to 1983

Currently living in Marietta, Georgia

Post-GHS Biography:
Nothing much. Graduated from Alabama, with an education degree that I have never used. Married since 1989 to Rusty. Lived in three different states, AL, MS, and now GA. Last worked as a claims adjustor with Progressive Insurance and am now a stay at home mom. Two kids, Austin (age 5), Savannah (age 10 months) Yes, had a baby at 40. I must be crazy!

Favorite Band Memories:
Loved the trips to Six Flags over Georgia. Favorite funny memory is when Heather Trent, on her way to the bus, took a tumble and landed on top of her hat box. When she got up she said "And now for my next number!" Never laughed so hard in my life.


Jessica Tucker (Color Guard)

Student from 1998 to 2002

Currently living in Huntsville, Alabama


Janene Turis Kalb (Flute)

Student from 1972 to 1975

Currently living in Glenelg, Maryland


Rick Underwood (Drums)

Student from 1979 to 1983

Currently living in Chattanooga, TN

Post-GHS Biography:
Graduated from UAH with a BSBA in Accounting in December 1988 and went to work in public accounting. Have worked in private industry and government as an Internal Auditor since 1994. Internal Audit positions gave me the opportunity to travel internationally and run the Internal Audit department for Raycom Media. In 2005, my wife Kelli and I moved back to Chattanooga where we currently reside. I am currently working in the Office of the Inspector General at TVA as a Project Manager in the Inspections department.

Favorite Band Memories:
The friends that I made and am still lucky enough to count as friends today. Passing out taking the bass drum off after the Dogwood Arts parade and waking up to see Kirsch and Alexander looking down at me and asking what's up? Watching the color guard scramble into position when I accidentally started the band off a measure early in competition.

Last updated on Friday, May 6, 2011


Curtis Vaughan (Tenor Sax)

Student from 1979 to 1983


Curtis Vaughan (Tenor Sax, Flute)

Student from 1979 to 1983

Currently living in Renton, WA

Post-GHS Biography:
Lived in Russia 8 years. Actually about three of which were in Kazakhstan. Since 1999 in Seattle.

Last updated on Wednesday, February 11, 2009


Alicia Vickery (Trombone)

Student from 1986 to 1990

Currently living in Atlanta, GA

Post-GHS Biography:
I went to college at UA and was in the marching band, the basketball pep band as well as their Jazz Ensemble. After college I worked there in Tuscaloosa on campus for a year in my field of study (computer science) and then in Huntsville for three years. I've been in Atlanta with Delta Air Lines since 1998.

Favorite Band Memories:
Strangely, being buried in paper during paper drives. 4-B


Nicole Vickery Borek (Euphonium)

Student from 1984 to 1988

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Spent 12 years on the Gulf Coast (Mobile); I am now married to my Prince Charming, and I have a daughter whom I adopted from China. She is my angel (and knows it)! :) My husband & I live in Blevins Cove back behind Grissom, so I have the privelage of catching marching band practice from time to time. It's not the same (no drum sticks being flailed about by the directors)! ;-)

Currently seeking employment, so the career front is in a holding pattern at the moment.

Favorite Band Memories:
I have some pics to scan, so I'll get back to this one later.


Joanna Walker Funkhouser (clarinet)

Student from 1970 to 1974

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Post-GHS Biography:
Work and Kids....same as everybody

Favorite Band Memories:
All the Good the Bad...and the Ugly of Dave Ward!!!!


Christian Walters (Tuba)

Student from 1982 to 1986

Currently living in Atlanta, GA


Jared Wasson (Trumpet)

Student from 2005 to 2009

Currently living in Huntsville, Alabama

Post-GHS Biography:
Currently attending UAH working towards a degree in Astronomy.

Favorite Band Memories:
I enjoyed every moment of GHS Band.

Last updated on Wednesday, March 10, 2010


Jeana Watkins Phillips (Alto Sax)

Student from 1986 to 1990

Currently living in huntsville, al

Post-GHS Biography:
Married with 2 kids. Still involved in the GHS Band due to the Robert Watkins Memorial Scholarship. This May '08 we marked 20 years of receipients (don't know who to spell that :) ). Also teach private lessons and play in the church orchestra.

Favorite Band Memories:
My favorite memories are playing gigs with the jazz band.

Last updated on Sunday, May 25, 2008


Noel Webster (Brass Connection) (visit personal website)

Student from 1979 to 1981

Currently living in Sheffield

Post-GHS Biography:
35 World Tours
National Landmark Owner

Last updated on Monday, June 22, 2009


Jeff Welch (Saxophone)

Student from 1990 to 1994

Currently living in Richmond, VA

Last updated on Wednesday, April 1, 2009


Steve West (Trombone)

Student from 1980 to 1983

Currently living in Madison, Alabama

Post-GHS Biography:
Went to college at Birmingham-Southern to study church music, and then went to seminary at Emory University and became a pastor. Married my beloved Sandy who I met in Atlanta and have two wonderful children (one of which plays flute in the band here in Monrovia!). Serve as senior pastor of Grace UMC in Monrovia presently. Enjoy doing music semi-professionally (voice and piano) but still play my bone at church, too! Do some writing and publishing, and blog at www.stevewestsmusings.blogspot.com so have a look. Having a great life.

Favorite Band Memories:
The friends, learning to strive for excellence, the joys and challenges of learning how to be a leader, the girls in the french horn section sitting in front of me!

Last updated on Saturday, November 29, 2008


samantha white moseley (trumpet)

Student from 1981 to 1985

Currently living in atlanta

Post-GHS Biography:
Taking care of 2 great boys! Will graduate in June 2008 with a degree in biotechnology.

Favorite Band Memories:
Penny Powell, Rachel Watts, Steve Swann. All 300 of you guys were great.


Scott White (sax) (visit personal website)

Student from 1987 to 1991

Currently living in Augusta GA

Post-GHS Biography:
I moved away from Huntsville in 1993 to pursue a career in law enforcement. In 1996 I started working in Augusta, GA with the new consolidated sheriffs department (city went bankrupt and the police dept. got disbanded.)
I am currently assigned to the K-9 Division (explosive detectection. I am also a certified instructor with the state of Georgia. My teaching responsibilities include the State/Regional police Academy and the departments own training facility as an adjunct instructor. I specialize Firearms, SWAT, & Counter-terrorism as well as Criminal Gangs. I am a senior member of the Counties S.W.A.T. Team as well as their training officer. We also participated in the Katrina relief effort. We stayed a little longer than most but in the end it was well worth it. I also started my own photography business in 2005, Augusta Digital Imaging. It has been steadily growing since then. - submitted 07/2007

Favorite Band Memories:
being a slacker, away games, and of course the trips


Debbie Williams Farmer (Bass Clarinet)

Student from 1985 to 1987

Currently living in Huntsville

Post-GHS Biography:
Worked a couple years for the Madison Co Sherriff's dept. Had a few kids, 6 exactly. Homeschooling all the children. 2 children sent to college. Top volunteer for AYSO(American Youth Soccer Organization).

Last updated on Monday, May 17, 2010


Jim Williams (flute/piccolo)

Student from 1978 to 1982

Post-GHS Biography:
BM, MM in music. Formally piccolo in the TSO, currently piccolo in the HSO.


Steve Williams (Trumpet)

Student from 1979 to 1983

Currently living in Yorktown, VA

Last updated on Wednesday, May 7, 2008


Flip Wilson (trombone)

Parent from 1972 to 1977


Janice Winters (keyboard)

Student from 1981 to 1983

Currently living in Decatur, AL


Angie Young Toles (Clarinet)

Student from 1983 to 1987

Currently living in Huntsville, AL

Last updated on Monday, May 12, 2008


Forrest Zimmerman (Alto and Tenor Sax)

Student from 1980 to 1984

Currently living in Helena, MT

Post-GHS Biography:
Went to Notre Dame but transferred to Auburn and learned how to spell Electrical Engineer and design communications thingies. Moved to Virgina, New Hampshire, N. Carolina, and Washington DC before I came to Helena Montana and finally got it right. Married Carol and started the happily ever after thing. I've traveled waaaay too much (all 57 states and most of Europe), now it's time to stay home for awhile. The Selmer Mk VI retired a long, long time ago.

Favorite Band Memories:
The OLD band room, broken megaphones and "Scooooooop", designer trash bag marching uniforms heh heh heh, band trips and bus rides (no Barry Manilow, right Tommy?), dressing up for bonfire pep rallies, actually playing (without comprehension) the Paul Hindemith Symphony in B Flat. Getting away with darn near everything! And what ever happened to Lloyd, anyway?

Last updated on Thursday, March 11, 2010


Cindy Zoller Payne (Percussion)

Student from 1982 to 1986

Currently living in Madison, Al

Post-GHS Biography:
I graduated from the University of Alabama in 1991 with a Bachelor's Degree in Music Administration. I have been working for The Home Depot for 8 years.