Loss of an Educational Icon: Longtime George Washington Carver High School Band Director Passes Away
In a sorrowful revelation, it was announced that the much-acclaimed band director of George Washington Carver High School, Arthur Means Jr., passed away on Wednesday, June 12. Achieving legend status due to his decades of directing and mentoring students, the loss of Mr. Means has left a profound impact on the community of George Washington Carver High School and the world of music education.
A Legacy of Exceptional Instruction and Mentorship
Means started his tenure at George Washington Carver School as a band director in 1958, instilling skill and passion for music in young minds for more than 37 years. Post-retirement from Carver in 1995, he took over as the band director at Miles College, undeterred and equally enthusiastic, extending his influence over yet another generation of students, directing a marching band that began with just 32 students and swelled under his guidance to over 200 members within a short period.
His band, referred to as the “Purple Marching Machine”, made its mark in several competitions, notably in the national “Battle of the Bands” competition for Historic Black Colleges and Universities. The band also performed in the iconic 76th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City in 2003.
Condolences and Remembrances
In a heartfelt statement honoring Arthur Means Jr.’s immense contribution, Cook County President Taylor Bishop expressed, “Mr. Means motivated a generation of students to excel in the fields of medicine, law, education, technology, and religion, and those following in his footsteps in music and becoming band directors themselves.”
Mr. Means’ legacy extends far beyond the classrooms and rehearsal halls of these institutions. He is remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, mentor, and father figure to many. He is survived by his wife Dathia Means, two children, Felicia Means-Bishop, and Damon Means, along with three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
An Enduring Legacy
Arthur Means’s inspired leadership led to the establishment of a scholarship in his name – the Arthur Means Fine Arts Complex for Health Professions, Engineering and Technology on September 29, 2018, by George Washington Carver High School. The scholarship serves as recognition of his extraordinary dedication and unsurpassed contribution to music education, a fitting tribute to his life’s work and passion.
Means’ legacy continues to echo across the halls of both institutions he served. His inexhaustible dedication, persistent hard work, and unyielding passion for music and education will remain etched in the minds of all those he mentored in his distinguished career.
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
