Richard (Dick) Cranford

Richard "Dick" Cranford passed away on August 29, 2017 at the age of 89. Shortly after having a stroke, he passed away peacefully at home with his wife, Susie and family at his side. Dick will be remembered for his talents as a band director at Alamo Heights and Northside Schools, a composer, gifted arranger, and well-known performer spanning generations of musical styles. After retirement, he enjoyed the challenge of expanding his knowledge and skills to include Dixieland Jazz. Dick began playing trumpet professionally at age 15. He was drum major at Brackenridge High School. Dick earned his BA and Master's degree from North Texas State University in Denton, Texas. He served in the Army (1948-52) playing in the 323rd Army Band, where some of his arrangements continue to be played today. He played for more than 35 years with the Rudy Carrasco Orchestra, 9 years with Alamo City Jazz Band and continued playing well into his 80s at various venues. He was proud of his association and contributions to community bands in San Antonio, Wimberley, New Braunfels and Boerne. He enjoyed living for 26 years in the Texas Hill Country in a home he designed and hand crafted, displaying his skills as a master craftsman. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Janet Cranford Ramos. Dick is survived by Susie, his wife of 38 years; his daughter, Debra Berman of Wilmington, NC; grandson, John Berman of Charlottesville, VA; sister, Joy Blacklock of North Little Rock, AR and beloved dog Sieben. Per Dick's request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ABODE Is Home, 8619 Post Oak Lane, San Antonio, Texas 78217 or Canyon Lake Animal Shelter Society, 2170 Old Sattler Road, Canyon Lake, Texas 78133.