Philip Joseph Fernandez

Sincere condolences to the family. I had great respect for Mr. Fernandez when I was in his band class from 69-73. An important figure in my young life. Thank you for sharing him with us Yavapai Thunderbirds.

Mr. Fernandez was my first band teacher. He carried himself with dignity and treated me as a person, not "just a kid". He tried to teach me coronet, baritone, and French horn. His patience was incredible. His love of music was as evident as his insistence that us kids respect and be kind to each other. We hated to disappoint him because of our respect for him. We tried our best when representing him and our school while marching or practicing for a concert. I recall that rather than...

Dear Jeanne, Kip and MaryAnn - We will all say a prayer for Phil. Seems like only yesterday we were on Weldon. Joyce has three grown children and is a grandmother(which makes me a great-grandmother). Joey never married, has an MBA from ASU and a good job in Irving, CA. Roy will turn 89 this Sept. We are living in Mesa at Leisure World. Betty & Roy Jacobson

My condolences, for this very special Man. I was one his many students from Yavapai, and he was the best!!! He made it so fun and loved what he did and made it that much better us (students) he will definately will not be forgotten! I have mentioned him to my children and still remember like it was yesturday how he taught me how to play the clarinet and saxaphone, he is one teacher i will never forget!!!

Mr. Fernandez gave me the gift of music. His investment of time and patience continues to be a blessing to me today. Can you believe I still have the cadence memorized from Supai M.S. ! Thank you Mrs. Fernandez for sharing your wonderful husband with us. He will always have a special place in my heart. God bless you and your family.

Phil led his band playing "Pomp and Circumstance" for many eighth graduations at Yavapai School starting in 1961. I know those students and the faculty of which Phil was such a big part will remember the kind and gentle spirit of this good man.

Mr. Fernandez was my band director at Yavapai elementary school from 4th-8th grade (1963-1967). He started me on the clarinet, which I am still playing today, 47 years later. In fact, I became a junior high school band director in Yuma, AZ and have been teaching for the last 33 years. I have a job I love all due to Mr. Fernandez and his love of music and patience. I wish to extend my sympathies on his passing to his family...he made a big difference in my life. Christine M. Wright(Kennedy)