WT Band Alumni Spotlight: Gary Laramore

What years were you in the WT Band? When did you graduate?

1964-1968. Graduated 1968

What was your degree in?

BME/MA

Where are you living now and what are you doing?

I am retired living in Lubbock. I spend most of my time with my family, my friends, and my church family.

Tell us about your family.

I married Jerilyn Carter (Class of 1967) in 1964, and we had one son. Gary Jr. was born in 1972. He is currently Superintendent of Schools in Iraan, Texas. Gary married Stacie Sanders, a wonderful lady, in 1995. Stacie is the JH Principal in Iraan, Texas. Gary and Stacie gave us Carter (1999), MaKenzie (2001), and Andrew (2003). To say that our lives revolved around family would be a gross understatement. We had a house in Red River, NM, for years and spent quality time there each summer.

What instrument did you play?

Trumpet

What ensembles and student groups were you involved in while you were at WT?

Buffalo Marching Band, WT Symphonic Band, WT Jazz Band.

Tell us a favorite band memory that you have from your time at WT.

Jerilyn and I were married on a Wednesday and rode a bus to the Dallas area for a football game two days later. Mrs. Garner instructed Dr. Garner to "get those kids a room to themselves", and of course he complied. I have always been thankful for her direction to the director.

Share with us what you miss most about your time at WT.

I miss making music with outstanding teachers and musicians. Music makes the world go round. I have stayed in close contact with Lamoyne and Darrell Garrison, and Candy and Rick Smith, from my time at WT. They are good friends.

Do you have a favorite memory or highlight that has happened for you since graduation?

My family would be the highlight. In addition, I taught 42 years in public education. 14 years as a Band Director, 21 years as a School Principal, and 7 years as a School Superintendent. I enjoyed making a difference for my students.

What did you learn from your time at WT?

I learned how to function as part of something greater than myself. I learned that anything is possible if the work is done.

What are some of your favorite musical memories?

I enjoyed playing in the bands that performed at TMEA and MENC. Those groups were ground breakers for the success that the WT Music Department has become known for.

Why did you come to WT?

Jerilyn was at WT and we were engaged. It's as simple as that. :-). Sweet Jerilyn, as she was called by friends and family, went home to be with Jesus in March of 2024. I miss her more than words can say.

What was your favorite band trip and why did you like it so much?

All the trips were memorable for one reason or another. I don't think I had a favorite trip.

Do you have any advice for current WT students?

Always lead a Christ Centered Life, Always do what's right, Choose your own path and don't let someone choose it for you, Call your parents often. Enjoy life to the fullest.

What else would you like for us to know? (Career or family highlights, awesome memories, people who inspired you at WT etc.)

The entire staff at WT was inspirational. The visit with Dr. Green, when he told me my grades needed to improve, was very inspirational. :-). Of course the leadership of Dr. Garner goes without saying. Dr. Garner lead by example and was unmatched in ability. I cherished my time at WT. I was able to attend the DCI event a month or so ago, on campus, and truly enjoyed seeing all the changes.