In Memoriam: Dr. Isaac Greggs

Published on: May 1st, 2014

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Dr. Isaac Greggs (Photo Courtesy Southern University)

Dr. Isaac Greggs, who served as Southern University's Director of Bands for 36 years, passed away on April 28, 2014, aged 85.

During Dr. Greggs' tenure, the Southern marching band became known as the "Human Jukebox" and played at six Super Bowls, four Sugar Bowls and three presidential inaugurations. Dr. Greggs retired in 2005, and was inducted into the Louisiana Black History Hall of Fame in 2013.

Southern University's Baton Rouge Chancellor James L. Llorens stated:  

"Dr. Isaac Greggs was a visionary, who created a marching band - the Human Jukebox - that constantly set the standard of greatness for all college marching bands. He poured his heart and soul into every performance. With Dr. Greggs, perfection was the only outcome he accepted."

"The true testament of his leadership is reflected not only in the number of his students who have become band directors and musicians of note around the country, but the multitude of former band members who, through the dedication and commitment instilled in them by Dr. Greggs, became leaders in their respective chosen careers outside of music."

"What he created with our marching band drew thousands of students to Southern University and left fans of the band in cities from Los Angeles to Houston to New York City. The Southern University family has lost a giant and he will be missed."

A viewing is set for Friday, May 2, at 3:00 p.m at the F.G. Clark Activity Center on the Southern University campus, followed by a memorial service at 6:00 p.m.

Dr. Gregg's funeral will begin on Saturday, May 3, at 11:00 a.m. at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, 9700 Scenic Highway, Baton Rouge, LA, 70807.

You can read more about Dr. Gregg's legacy here at nola.com and here at theadvocate.com.

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