Dr. Ronald Moncrief Thielman

Wichita Falls - Dr. Ronald Moncrief Thielman, a gifted musician, devoted educator, and beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on March 30, 2026, surrounded by family. Ronald was born July 27, 1936 to the late Henry Thielman and Joyce Moncrief Thielman in Chicago, Illinois.

Ron's life was defined by music, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Ron graduated from Arkansas State Teachers College-now the University of Central Arkansas-in 1958 with a Bachelor of Music Education. He went on to earn a master's degree from the University of North Texas and was later awarded an honorary Doctorate of Music from the Conservatorio Nacional de Música in Mexico City, a testament to his remarkable contributions to the field.

He began his teaching career in the public schools of Missouri and Arkansas, spending six years shaping young musicians. One of his most cherished roles was serving as band director in Marianna, Arkansas, where under his leadership the program tripled in size and earned numerous awards.

Ron's university career began at the University of Mississippi as Associate Director of Bands. In 1967, he accepted the position of Director of Bands at New Mexico Highlands University, where he led one of the largest instrumental graduate programs in the state. In 1969, he became Director of Bands at New Mexico State University, where he transformed the program, more than doubling its size. His concert bands were selected to perform for the Capital MENC Convention and the College Band Directors National Association Conference, honors reflecting his exceptional musicianship and leadership.

Ron was widely respected as a guest conductor, adjudicator, and trombone soloist, performing throughout the United States, Mexico, and Europe. As a composer, he published approximately 50 works for band, and at one point was recognized as one of the 20 most performed composers of band music worldwide.

After retiring from NMSU in 1995, Ron returned to performing. He played lead trombone with legendary ensembles including the Tommy Dorsey, Jimmy Dorsey, Les Elgart, Jack Morgan and the Russ Morgan Orchestra, Jan Garber, Dick Jurgens, Guy Lombardo, and the Lawrence Welk Orchestra. He performed on Mississippi River cruises, cruise ships, and with his own High Society Orchestra, bringing joy to audiences across the country.

Ron is survived by the love of his life for 42 years, Mary Ellen, with whom he shared a lifetime of music, laughter, and partnership. The couple made their home in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and recently relocated to Texas to be closer to family.

He is also survived by his children: Laura Riddle of Albuquerque, New Mexico; David Thielman of Northern New Mexico; Amy Raymond of Wichita Falls, Texas; Lisa Wright (Jerrell) of Wichita Falls, Texas; and Todd Murdock (Holly) of Lubbock, Texas.

He leaves behind seven grandchildren: Scott Thielman, David Thielman, both of Albuquerque, Kristin Clark (Chris) of Fort Worth, Texas, Justin Raymond (Beth) of Fort Worth, Texas, Ashley Parker (Steven) of Dallas, Texas, Kyle Wright (Cassie) of Keller, Texas, and Carsen Murdock of Lubbock, Texas. Ron is also survived by six great-grandchildren: Ethan, Riley, Addison, Eli, Kristine, and Jackson.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Hospice of Wichita Falls and The Gables at Rolling Meadows for their exceptional care, compassion, and support during Ron's final months.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org or the Doña Ana County Animal Shelter, https://dachslc.org/

A remembrance will be held at a later date.

Dr. Ronald Moncrief Thielman lived a life rich in music, service and love. His influence will continue to resonate through the countless students he taught, the musicians he inspired and the family who adored him. His melody lives on.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.owensandbrumley.com