Today, family, friends and former students attended a service of Celebration and Thanksgiving for the life of Hilliard B. Sorrells, fondly called H.B. He was a music teacher, an award winning band and concert director and for a while taught language arts and social studies.
H.B. Sorrells began his exemplary career in music education at Cleburne High School in Cleburne, TX in 1958 and in 1959 was Band Director at Rosenwald High School in Luling, TX. He was hired in Dallas ISD as Band and Orchestra Director in 1968 and taught at both Sarah Zumwalt Junior High and South Oak Cliff High School Annex. After inspiring and mentoring scores of students, he retired from Dallas ISD in 1985.
For years after retirement, H.B. Sorrells' love for students and teaching moved him to volunteer in schools, city libraries, GED classes, as well as for numerous community projects. He also responded to the call to work part-time as strings instructor at Mark Twain and T.G. Terry Elementary schools.
With sincerity and integrity, H.B. Sorrells worked to improve schools and communities. Waving his baton, this band director helped students learn music, build confidence and develop character. At his service, adults gratefully honored their former music conductor.
H. B. Sorrells was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity.
We extend condolences to his wife of 56 years, Rosie, his daughter, grandson and son-in-law -- Lazette, Collin and Derrick Kellum.
Thank you, H. B. Sorrells. You were ever the noble warrior.
Thank you for showing what it means to hear, appreciate and create the sound of music every day.
You always had a song in your heart.
When we think of great teachers, Mr. Sorrells comes to mind first! He taught us what we needed to know to go into High School and life, even when he had to drill it into us (We remember F Troop). Only Mr. Sorrells’ band students would know what that means. His memory will always live in our hearts. --Diane Waters, Linda Hatton - Zumwalt Band Members 1967-1969
