Dr. Richard A. Barrows

I was also one of thousands of students who sang in the Hallelujah Chorus every Christmas during my years at River Dell. They were special nights, as we watched the alumni come up to the stage and sing with us. I will also never forget my years of Early Bird Chorus, Bakers Dozen, and America Hurray. Dr. Barrows love of music was inspiring - his dedication will always be in my heart. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He was very loved by many, and will never be forgotten.

I am one of the "over 10,000 students" who learned the Hallelujah Chorus from Dr. Barrows ... I will always remember singing in a chorus of 300+ with the entire football team singing bass but only THREE tenors. And SO much more -- I first heard Ravi Shankar in Humanities class with Dr. Barrows -- not the usual high school class material. To his family, please accept my prayers; may God give you comfort.

After posting my comment, I was horrified to learn that my memory served me so poorly thinking that Dr. Barrows did not have children and grandchildren. If I offended anyone, I am so terribly sorry as it was not my intention. On the other hand, I'm thrilled to learn of these progeny as they were truly blessed to have such an extraordinary father and grandfather to guide them.

To the Barrows Family:

My thoughts are with you through this difficult time. I'm so sorry that I never visited Dr. Barrows to let him know that, because of him, I have spent my 30 year career in the arts. He was always so positive and grateful. I remember listening to records that were scratched and he would tell us to imagine that we are listening by the crackling fire. When Spring came he made the entire class go outside to observe a sprig of green that had pushed up and cracked...

Dr. Barrows life is cause for a celebration of the ability of one man to give joy to so many. His passion for bringing the appreciation of music to countless individuals will have a generational impact well beyond our time. His relentless commitment to education and dedication to serving God and his fellow man are an example to us all in understanding that we each are endowed with a purpose for greater good. Dr. Barrows lived his purpose fully and the Lord has welcomed him home after his long...

Dear Steve, Rosanne, Mike, Brian and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We've seen Mr. Barrow's spirit and great talent exhibited by the boys on stage, what an amazing man.
With deepest sympathy and love, Shelagh, John, James and Shona

To the Barrows Family-We are friends of Steve, Rosanne, Michael and Brian and are so deeply saddened at the lose of Dr. Barrows. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. He was a wonderful man who will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.