Ronald Cole Death, Obituary – Dr. Ronald Cole spent a considerable chunk of his career teaching at the University of Southern Mississippi School of Music in the capacity of lecturer. In addition to those responsibilities, he was the first director of the school and chair of the department throughout his tenure there. We are informing you of the news of his passing with a heavy heart and a great deal of sorrow on our shoulders. Ron’s leadership at USM was distinguished by his ambition, which resulted in the establishment of our very first scholarships, NASM accreditation, and the transition from a music department to a School of Music.
As a result of Ron’s leadership, USM went from having a music department to having a School of Music. As a direct result of Ron’s leadership, the University of Southern Mississippi transformed its music program from a department into a school. It is an honor for us to carry on some aspects of his legacy, and we would like his family to know that we are sincerely sorry for their loss and that it is a privilege for us to do so. A remarkable individual who excels in their positions as a professor, administrator, and dogged advocate for the University of Southern Mississippi. He will be sorely missed,
but thanks to the admiration and memories of his fellow USM alumni who had the privilege of getting to know him and collaborate with him, he will continue to be remembered long after his departure. The amount of effort, devotion, and concern that Dr. Cole has shown throughout the course of his career is clearly reflected by the fact that he has been responsible for the Osher School’s continual expansion over the course of several decades.