He came to every one of his students' performances — even after they graduated, even years later. He was in the audience when I played my first professional gig. He stood up.
1 week ago
Ernest John Calloway
September 17, 1944 – June 14, 2026 · 81 years
"His laugh arrived before he did and stayed after he left."
Biography
Ernest John Calloway was a retired high school band director from Jackson, Mississippi, who spent 37 years teaching young people to play — and more importantly, to listen. Known as "Mr. C" to generations of students, Ernest had a gift for finding the musical potential in even the most reluctant child. He led his school's marching band to state championships eleven times. In retirement he played trumpet at his church every Sunday without fail. Ernest is survived by his wife Gloria, four children, and an alumni band of former students who are already planning a memorial concert in his name.
Messages & Tributes (5)
+ Write a MessageMr. C took a shy twelve-year-old with absolutely no rhythm and turned him into a musician. He never gave up on me. Not once. Not ever.
1 week ago
Dad's trumpet is sitting on the kitchen table. None of us can bring ourselves to move it.
1 week ago
Ernest, you made music out of every Sunday we had together. The church won't sound the same. Nothing will.
2 weeks ago
Ernest played that trumpet every Sunday for thirty-one years. His music was prayer made sound. This congregation feels his absence in its bones.
1 week ago