Gerald "Jerry" Rupert

I am so sad to hear of the passing of my former band director from New River Middle School. Mr. Rupert was my first formal music instructor back in the 6th grade as a novice percussionist back in the mid 80's. His tutelage and wisdom guided me towards a life of music that carried me to college and beyond. I am so proud to have studied under him and to have known him. May he rest and peace!

Errol D. McWhite Sr.

My memories of Mr. Rupert are wonderful. I am just discovering his passing after looking him up. Sorry to hear of his passing. He was my first musical mentor as a member of the New River Middle School band in the mid 80's. Mr. Rupert struck the "match" that ignited my love for music and the arts. I will be forever grateful. Thank you Mr. Rupert and may you rest in peace.

My. Rupert, Thank you for showing me the power of music. Thank you for loving something so much that you were willing to dedicate your life to it. Thank you for being so inspiring that you made me never forget who you were and the beauty you brought to my life. Thank you for teaching me how powerful and eternal a musical thought can be and thank you most of all for just caring that I saw this in music.

Mr Rupert was a great man! He was my middle school band Director at New River Middle School in the 1970's.
Mr Rupert was also my Scoutmaster, of which my brother and I became Eagle Scouts under his great leadership.
Rest In Peace and know you did a great job developing hundreds of students and scouts who accomplished great things!