James Allen Middleton

James was born February, 17, 1925 in Woodbine Kansas, son of James and Elizabeth (Evers) Middleton who preceded him in death. He attended Woodbine High School and then served in the U. S. Army during WWII, earning a bronze star and numerous other medals. After the war James attended Southern Nazarene University earning a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal and instrumental music, then attended the University of Oklahoma finishing his masters and then his PhD in Music Education.

James married Doris Ione Gugler on December 15, 1946. Together they enjoyed working in their flower and vegetable gardens, playing and listening to music, going to concerts and doing puzzles. James and Doris had a strong sense of family values and their kids were a priority. She preceded him in death in 2007 after 60 years of marriage.

James worked in schools teaching instrumental vocal and instrumental music starting in Edmond, OK then in Norman, OK. He authored three books on musicianship. He was an assistant professor of music at Tulsa University; in 1973 he moved to Columbia, MO to serve as a professor (emeritus) of music education at the University of Missouri, retiring in 1987. He also directed the Chancel Choir at Wilkes Blvd. United Methodist Church from 1982-1995. Survivors include four children: Julie Gibson of Columbia, MO, Christine Worsham of Charleston, SC, Brian Middleton of Claremore, OK and Stephanie Watson of Leawood, KS, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two brothers and one sister.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 am on Friday, February 17, 2017 at the Memorial Funeral Home chapel, with an inurnment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until the service time. Memorials are suggested to the Community United Methodist Church, 3301 W. Broadway, Columbia MO 65203.