Collierville, Tennessee, flutist Keisie Hyde, student of Ruth Ann McClain from grades 7-12, was killed tragically in a car accident in Collierville on October 4, 1997.
Keisie had been an outstanding member of the CHS Band, directed by Phil Hughes and assistant director Wanda Terral, and was principal this, her senior year, also serving as section leader. She was also principal flute in the newly formed Collierville Civic Band, where she had been featured soloist on their September 13 and 14 concerts, playing Concertino by C. Chaminade. Keisie had consistently received superior ratings in all of her West Tennessee competitions, as well as being named to the All West Tennessee Jr. High Band, and in 1996, was principal flute in the All West Tennessee Orchestra. In addition, she attended the Tennessee Governor's School for the Arts in 1996. Keisie had planned to major in flute at the University of Mississippi.
Keisie is survived by her parents, Pam and Paul Hyde, and her grandparents, Lewis Keith, and Milo and Barbara Hyde, and many, many friends who will miss her ever smiling face, and upbeat personality. Following are two anonymous poems: the first was found on the band room door the day after her death, and the second, sent to her parents and grandparents, was read by her Grandfather Hyde at the funeral service.
The darkness swallows our mourning and prayers,
The crickets chrup in a choral eulogy,
And the faint sound of a flute is heard
Through the tranquil wind in the trees.
As its euphony sings us to sleep
We, nestled in our beds
With tears drying on our cheeks
Dream, of your friendship and joyful memories
Which unlike your life, half-lived,
Will endure forever.
So, dear friends, let us take comfort
In these memories and in each other.
And in the knowledge that
As the cosmos encompasses a weary world,
And the white waxing moon
Illuminates the blackened rooftops of the lamented city,
Her silent spirit rests tonight,
A tiny child of God, sleeping,
Cradled in her Father's arms.
Keisie Hyde was loved by her friends, family, and fellow band members. Her gregarious and fun-loving nature will be remembered by all who knew her and we will never forget her remarkable musical talent and unsurpassed instrumental genius. No one can ever take her place in the band or in our hearts. Keisie, our prayers are with you and with your loved ones as they face the difficult times ahead. We pray that God will watch over us and guide us as we heal. Let us take comfort in the knowledge that He is already taking care of you.
Anonymous
Anonymous
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