Joseph K. Whitehead, III

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph K. Whitehead Ill, aka Joe. 05/11/1939 - 4/2/2024. He passed in his sleep in San Antonio on April 2nd. He was with his wife and family. He is survived by his Wife of 62 years, Mairlyn, Son, Joe IV, Daughter, Sharon, 6 Grandchildren, Joseph V, Scott, Mikah, Marissa, Josh, Mia, 1 Great Grandson, Joseph VI, an older Sister, Jane, his students, friends, and family.

Joe grew up a child of West Virgina coal mining. He got his degrees in music education from Concord College in West Virginia and his Masters from University of Wisconsin in Madison. He started the String Orchestra Music program in Baytown's GCCISD in 1971. He brought the communities of Baytown and Highlands the joys of classical music, that started with youthful, energetic, squeaky violins, violas, cellos, and string basses bowing to Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star that progressed and matured to award winning, full orchestras, including GCCISD's best wind, brass, and percussion Band students capable of playing the best of Beethoven, Mozart, and Vivaldi. In the beginning, he taught Orchestra to students at every Junior High School in Baytown and Highlands. As the Orchestra population matured and grew, his teaching adventures grew to include both Baytown Lee and Sterling High Schools.

Early on, he'd ride to each school on his green Honda motorcycle with his violin strapped to his back and might have been guilty of testing the passenger limitations of a Volkswagen bug when taking his students for Ice Cream. Joe's energy and love for music infused and enthralled the youth of Baytown and Highlands and brought joy to our community. His students often progressed to perform with the nation's greatest symphonies and orchestras. He offered his students, family, stability, and the joys of youth.

Joe retired from teaching in 2021 but did not retire from life. He thrived in the musical community he helped build. When out, in Baytown or even out of State, it was rare for him not to hear enthusiastic shouts of "Mr. Whitehead, Mr. Whitehead!!" by the generations of students he taught and influenced in Baytown and Highlands. His greatest happiness was achieved when seeing the light brighten in his student's eyes as they learned. He taught us all the joy of playing and participating in the orchestra. He taught us how to connect with others, make friends, enjoy life, and grow up.

Joe was an incredible teacher, mentor, friend, husband, and father. He will be missed and will always, always be loved.

Remembrance and Celebration will be held in Baytown on a yet to be determined date. In lieu of flowers, please offer contributions to the American Alzheimer's Association.