James Harry Arrowood Jr.

STEVENS POINT, Wisc. - James Arrowood, 61, died at home, June 29, 2008, following two decades of struggle with chronic respiratory disease. He was Professor Emeritus of Music and former director of bands at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. In a life replete with recognition for excellence in musicianship and teaching, he most valued his role as father and husband. James was born on Sept. 30, 1946 in Concord, the son of Vivian (Irvin) Arrowood and the late James Harry Arrowood Sr. His loving parents shared their affection for music with him, and his sister, at home and through their church choir at First Baptist Church in Concord. Young Jimmy's affinity for music was further developed through the choral and music program in Concord public schools and in particular by high school band director Robert Ingram. Jim entered Wake Forest University in 1964. Upon graduation, he was offered a position in instrumental music in Halifax County, Va. Although he held no teaching credential or music degree, he accepted the job. It was a wonderful step toward a life of fulfillment. Even more rewarding was his marriage to Barbara Knowles of Livingston, N.J. in December 1970. The next decades embodied a Masters Degree at Radford University, high school band director in Culpeper, Va., conducting positions at Ball State University, Capital University and University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, graduate and post graduate work at University of Virginia and University of Michigan. Following his tenure at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Wisc., James Arrowood held the title of Professor Emeritus and Conductor/Director of Wind Bands. James Arrowood was a respected and revered professor. He touched many students' lives. James is survived by Barbara, his wife of 38 years; and their two adult children, Heather of Nairobi, Kenya, Africa, and Garett of Miami, Fla.; his mother, Vivian Arrowood; and a sister, Vickie Arrowood Cook and brother-in-law, Gerald L. Cook, all of Concord.