Verda Marie Herrington

Verda Marie Herrington, born November 12, 1936, in Victoria, Texas to Mabel and Hampton Herrington, died on September 24 2025, in McDade, Texas.

From an early age, Verda displayed a clear inclination for music and mentorship. Her musical journey began when her mother bought her a cornet from Sears, sparking an "addiction" to music, as Verda herself described it. She continued to pursue this passion in high school in Freer, TX, where she actively participated in the band, embracing every opportunity to play various types of music. However, it was during this time that her desire to teach and mentor crystallized, leading her to realize her true calling as a band director. This profound drive, fueled by the joy of witnessing a child's musical discovery, remained a guiding force throughout her entire professional career.

After graduating from high school, she furthered her musical education at the University of Texas at Austin. There, she attributed her growth as a musician to her trumpet instructor, Dr. J. Frank Elsass, and the Symphonic Band director, Alexander von Kreisler. Her musical journey continued with performances in the Midland-Odessa Symphony under Dr. Lara Hoggard, and subsequently with the Austin Symphony, led by Ezra Rachlin.

In 1961, Verda embarked on a 31-year teaching career at Alamo Jr. High School in Midland, Texas. As one of the few women in a male-dominated profession, she quickly demonstrated her capabilities, supported by colleagues like Dorothy Post and Verna Covington. In 1968, Verda returned to the University of Texas, earning her Masters degree. She then dedicated 12 years to teaching in Austin, at Webb Middle School and Anderson High School. Verda continued her teaching career at Klein High School and Pflugerville High School, concluding her service at Westview Middle School in Pflugerville. Under Verda’s guidance, ensembles consistently achieved top ratings at UIL and other competitions. While she took pride in her students' successes, her focus remained on the performance itself, the personal sharing of music, and the musician's connection to the music. To culminate her legacy, she was inducted into the Texas Bandmasters Hall of Fame in 2002.

Verda's other passions included a deep love for animals; she rescued many throughout her life. It was common for her to stop and help an injured animal, taking them to the vet for treatment at her own expense. She was also an avid jogger who cherished being outdoors and connecting with nature.

She was known for her loving and kind nature, though she could also be quite stubborn, a trait well-known to those close to her. When she was upset, it was best to give her space. We loved her for her genuine self and the way she shared her music and spirit with us. She brought together people of different generations, introducing us to new friends through her gatherings of "her kids." There will truly never be another Verda Herrington.

She is survived by several nieces and nephews, including Dorothy Gary, Sherry Lasiter, Audrey Starnes, Johnny Dady, Jacky Davis, Gary Herrington, Patty Womack, Bobby Herrington, Jody Herrington, and Tracy Herrington. Her cousins, Matt Adams, Timothy Adams, Jonathan Adams, and Daniel Adams, also survive her, as do all "her kids." She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Sonny, and her sister Anna Ruth.

Verda, a beloved teacher, music lover, and maternal figure, will be deeply missed by her many friends. Her enduring love for us, and our love for her, will live on forever. Rest in peace, dear, dear friend.

A Celebration of Life for Verda will be held at 471 Herron Trail, McDade, TX 78650 on November 8, 2025, at 10am. A meal will follow, with proteins provided. Please bring your favorite side dish.