Thara John Memory

Thara John Memory - From what I have read and the music I listen to, Thara was an outstanding musician and most important his dedication to the youth in his community. I did not get to see him in action after he left Florida. I am his first cousin (Roberta (Betty Campbell Lopez). We share the same grandfather. I missed the time that flew by without getting to help him with his work before his death. He will always have a place in my heart.

Thara, its Rick Callier. Im sorry youre no longer with us on a number of levels. The most important one is that you left too soon. Additionally, knowing your creative work and educational vision: the willingness to present great music to the world, and superb musical education to others (especially young musicians), you left lots of items on your work bench unfinished! Hopefully, there are those among us, your many students who desire to keep your memory alive, who will bring continued...

I watched you as a kid in eatonville,florida1968 at hungerford high school masterfully playing your trumpet and it inspired me to get better on my trumpet.I saw greatness in you then, take your rest my friend and go with the angels.

My apologies, need to make a correction to my previous entry: my opportunity to spend time with Thara Memory at Wilson HS was in the mid-1990's, not late-90's as I previously mentioned below. Sorry for my mistake in the time-frame. The delight of having that opportunity still remains strong.

First met Thara while we were on the staff at Wilson HS in the late '90's, and thoroughly enjoyed those delightful times together. Continue to have the utmost admiration for Thara's dedication, genius, talent, and compassion for all that he brought for so many. His legacy and contributions will always be treasured.
My sincere condolences and sympathy to the family, as you and Thara will be forever in my thoughts. Blessings to all.

To Thara.
Thank you for your musical guidance and tutelage. My life as a professional musician and music educator is owed to a handfull of people, but none like you Thara. You surpass them all! The time you sacrificed, the skills and craft of music composition and performance which you displayed and delivered to me will always be recognized, appreciated, utilized, and publicized. I will always remember you, your musical legacy, and your impact in my life and many others in music. My...

God bless, and may he keep you in the hollow of his hand. My wife Sherry and I remember you from the Hobbit days. you did a lot of good for the young people of community. Thanks

Sorely missed

This man has inspired so many, he taught
me so much, directly and indirectly, I wouldn't be the Jazz (or Classical) musician am am today without his tough love approach, I will miss him, my sincere condolences to his family. Eddie (Skip) Parente