FBISD mourns the loss of Ronald Thornton, Willowridge High School Head Band Director
FORT BEND ISD—The Willowridge High School community and entire Fort Bend school district lost a beloved teacher, leader and friend in Ronald Thornton who passed away December 4. A long-time music educator, Thornton was serving in his 21st year as Band Director for Willowridge. Through his leadership and commitment to excellence, the Willowridge Band program has enjoyed a reputation as one of the premier show bands in the region, and performed in numerous prestigious events during Thornton’s tenure.
“Mr. Thornton was a legend in his own time—known for his outstanding character, his commitment to directing a band program of the highest quality, and his talent for bringing out the best in the students whose lives he touched. He will be greatly missed by our entire school district,” said Dr. Timothy Jenney, Superintendent.
Dr. Joe Coleman, Willowridge Principal, said Thornton was a positive and powerful force in the lives of so many young people over the years. “Ronald Thornton has influenced thousands of students during his tenure as Head Band Director. He instilled discipline, honor, pride, class and character in all of his students and programs. He will be thoroughly missed by the students, faculty and the entire Willowridge community,” said Coleman.
Along with Thornton’s many accomplishments through the years, Coleman said that the band performance at a recent football game between Willowridge and Hightower will be something no one who was there will forget. “In addition to the current band students, he had about 200 alumni band students who performed as well, and it was just an amazing performance and tribute to the loyalty that his students felt for him.”
The Mighty Eagle Band, under the direction of Thornton, has received numerous local, state and national recognitions, and performed in several prestigious parades including the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Orange Bowl Parade, the Honolulu Hawaii Festival Parade, the HEB Thanksgiving Day Parade, the Texas Southern Homecoming Parade, the Fort Bend County Fair Parade and Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show parade.
Additionally the Band has participated in numerous special events including MLK Battle of the Bands Competitions, Houston Oiler’s/Texans halftime shows, Houston Rocket’s halftime shows, and a host of other community activities.
Thornton received his Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Texas Southern University and a Masters Degree in Music Education from the University of Houston. He has been a member of several professional societies and associations and was a past president of the Texas Black Music Educators Association. He received many awards during his career including selection as one of 10 recipients of the Outstanding High School Teachers sponsored by the Texas Exes and the College of Education at the University of Texas.
Celebration of Life for Ronald Thornton:
Candle Light Vigil
Band Practice Field, Willowridge High School
Wednesday, December 9th, 6:30 pm
Jam Session Celebration (Wake)
Brentwood Baptist Church
Thursday, December 10th, 6:30 pm
Funeral Services
Brentwood Baptist Church
Friday, December 11th, 10:00 am
