Respected retired University of Memphis band director Sidney “Doc” McKay died Monday. He was 79-years-old. McKay was being treated in a rehabilitation center, where he was recovering from a broken collarbone. The cause of death remains unclear.
Starting his career at the University of Memphis in 1975, he dedicated 28 years to teaching and influencing students. During his time, he assisted in rejuvenating The Bandmasters Championship by moving it to the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.
McKay retired from the U of M in 2003, but his legacy has remained. Albert Nguyen, the current band director, considered McKay a strong supporter, mentor and friend.
“He loved and cared deeply for every student he taught. He made sure they were successful,” Nguyen said. “He dedicated his life to them, found them jobs and kept up with them after they graduated. A lot of people owe their lives and careers to him for what he has done.”
Nguyen added, “He embodied many of the things, we as teachers, try to accomplish – having pride, high expectations and honesty with a students’ work.”
McKay was deeply cared for at the University of Memphis by students and staff.
Carol Rakestraw, administrative associate of the Communication and Fine Arts, has been at the University of Memphis for 17 years and considered McKay’s humor to be one of his most memorable qualities.
“He could be strict with the kids, but he had a great sense of humor and a sparkle in his eye whenever he taught,” Rakestraw said. “I’ve learned so much about him through the outpour on Facebook from every person he taught. He had a student everywhere who cared for him.”
McKay is remembered for his ability to remain in contact with students who graduated. “Students would visit 15 years later, and he would remember the instrument they played, their marital status and number of children they have,” Rakestraw said.
Memphis students were not the only people that McKay affected. His career spanned over 44 years, and he left his musical footprint in the Mid- South and surrounding areas by teaching at high schools in Mississippi and Louisiana as well as the University of Southern Mississippi and Delta State University.
McKay was a personable man who created a legacy for himself at the University of Memphis with his passion for music and forming long lasting relationships with his students.
