HCU Pays Tribute to the Life and Legacy of Dr. John Yarrington

Houston Christian University (HCU) pays tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. John Yarrington, former Dean of HCU's School of Music, following his recent passing on Oct. 21, 2024, at the age of 83.

The beloved administrator and music professor served the University for 18 years before retiring in 2017. During his time at the University, he served in numerous roles, including Director of the Schola Cantorum, Director of the University Singers, Chair of the Music Department, a Faculty Athletic Representative in the HCU Athletics Department and a devoted mentor to students.

His passion for music and love for students endeared him to administrators, faculty and students alike who referred to him, affectionately, as Dr. Y.

"John Yarrington was a great faculty member and colleague at Houston Christian University. He had a unique gift of drawing out special qualities in students that they didn't know they had. His love of students, his professional expertise, and his great capacity for friendship have enriched the history of the University and continue to be a great gift to us. Sue and I formed a deep affection for John and Diane and are grateful to God for all that he has meant to HCU. He was a personal friend and will be missed," said HCU President Robert Sloan.

Dr. David Kirkwood, Chair of the Department of Music, described Dr. Yarrington as "a great man: compassionate, greathearted, generous, humorous, and thoughtful."

"When I became a faculty member after a tumultuous year in the music department, Dr. Y, even though he didn't have to, was extremely gracious and welcoming to me as a junior faculty member. In those early years, I was able to benefit from his wisdom, advice, and good sense of humor. And when I was bogged down with an overload of courses and burdened with the interim chairmanship of the department while still trying to finish my doctorate, Dr. Y was always very encouraging and supportive," said Dr. Kirkwood.

Dr. Daniel Kramlich, Professor of Music in the School of Fine Arts, commended Dr. Yarrington for the extraordinary and lasting effect he had on the many people fortunate to know him well.

"I am one of those lucky ones. As Director of the Music Department at Houston Christian University, Dr. Yarrington brought a no-nonsense, personable, and capable leadership. With him, it was always about two things: the music and the people. He had that rare ability and passion to make anyone working with him want to do their very best.

"The same can be said with regard to interpersonal relationships. His zest for life and sense of humor were quite infectious, and it has been a joy in my life to be called his friend. He has always been a champion of my music and has consistently gone to great lengths to perform my choral works. The professionalism and personal joy of working with Dr. Y. have been high points in my own life and are just one way of describing the value of this extraordinary man," said Dr. Kramlich.

HCU Staff Pianist Ben Sieben and Director of Choral Activities Dr. Kevin Klotz were former students of the HCU music professor.

Dr. Sieben described his former professor as "a father figure to so many students."

"He would advocate for students like no other, and he regularly expressed his sincere affection for us as his students. He was an incredible person, a truly whole person, and many who knew him aspire to be like him," said Sieben.

Dr. Klotz, considered it a blessing to call his beloved professor "a teacher, mentor and good friend."

"Through the years, he kept up with me and supported me in my musical endeavors. What a wonderful and kind person. Dr. Y, as he was often called, truly cared for his students and brought the best out of them. He also had a great sense of humor. I will miss him so much, but I know he is joyfully leading the Heavenly choir," said Dr. Klotz.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, at First Presbyterian Church of Houston, 5300 Main Street. Donations may be made to the Chancel Choir of FPC or the charity of your choice.