Guest Book
Dr. John Hanbery is celebrating a birthday on May 7th. In a time where parties are not happening and gifts do not seem “essential”, we are putting together a virtual collection of photos, friends, and family to give him on his special day. Are you a friend, a student, a church member, a neighbor, a relative, or just an acquaintance of Dr. John Hanbery? If so, please join our celebration and sign our guest book by taking a couple of minutes to fill out this simple form. He has been so much to so many over the years, we would love to hear from you and share your memories, thoughts, and wishes. Please share with others that you think would want to join in, but do not share with him! It is a surprise! If you have pictures, please email them to us!
Guest Book - Started May 7, 2020
Name: John David Hanbery
Relationship: Grandson
Fondest Memory: Driving in DeDaddy’s mustang with the top down on the trace!
Impact: Dedaddy has definitely impacted my life by just being my grandfather. The way he goes out of his way to make everyone feel special is something that I look up to.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy Birthday!!! Hopefully we will get to ride the Mustang with the top down soon!
Name: Juanita Proffitt
Relationship: Dr Hanbery was my band director, is my mentor, and has become like family to me.
Fondest Memory: Some of my best memories have been with him and Mary Beth sharing a meal and a cup of coffee....maybe two cups of coffee!
Impact: I would not be who I am today as a person or as a band director without his impact on my life. Many times he helped me to navigate rocky waters , face difficult decisions, and helped me to believe in myself. I will never forget the first time I took a band to contest by myself and because Doc was there, even sight reading was not as bad. There are not enough words to adequately thank him for all the ways he is a blessing to me and all of his former students.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: I hope that your birthday is as spectacular as you are. I wish you a wonderful day of much happiness and a little coffee too! Thank you for including me in your family and for a lifetime of wonderful memories.
Name: Jimmy Sclater
Relationship: John and I taught together at MC for many years. Now we are coffee drinking buddies and just plain good buddies.It's like HE
Fondest Memory: Our relationship with Big Jack. Never knew what was about to happen. "It's like he was never here."
Impact: The impact John had on his band students and the kindness he showed to them... and to me.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy birthday to a great guy and a great friend.
Name: Glyn and Jan Hanbery
Relationship: Brother and Sister-in-law.
Fondest Memory: He is my “Big, as well as Older Brother.” He helped raise me and still has some work to do to that end.
Jan remembers all the good chats around their fireplace.
Impact: He spent our childhood getting me out of trouble.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Hope your birthday is full of good memories and lots of laughs.
Name: Bill Rigby
Relationship: He did his student band director training at my high school in Kosciusko, MS.
Fondest Memory: My mom and dad invited him to dinner several times.
Impact: Well, he married my high school classmate, Mary Beth, and he pointed me toward Ole Miss.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: I ALWAYS enjoy spending time with you at the KHS66 reunions. We should get together more often. I commute regularly to Madison, MS.
Name: Tamra Helms
Relationship: Student. He was and is my role model, mentor, and friend. I adore him, his wife, and loved knowing David and Lisa when they were very young.
Fondest Memory: I will never forget this quote he used. “It is inherent in man to create or destroy.” It always makes me question how I am spending my time. He also allowed Lisa to march with me my sophomore and freshman year as my mini-me, lol. And when I started dating my future husband, I always had David to keep him at arm’s length. It was adorable.
Impact: Mine for sure. He was a steadying presence throughout my college years.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: I know I’ve told you in person more than once, but I will say it again. You are the most influential teacher I ever had. Your patience, kindness and fairness will never be forgotten. Happy Birthday, Dr. Hanbery.
Name: Janice Ilhollin
Relationship: I was in the Mississippi College Choctaw Band 1978-1980.
Fondest Memory: Doc is a special person. He cared about his students, in their studies and in their personal lives as well.
Impact: He absolutely impacted my life. He shared his life experiences (I believe) to help young college kids set goals and evaluate their purpose in life. He was a true role model.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy happy birthday Doc Hanberry! I hope your have a wonderful, special day!
Name: Laurie Jennings
Relationship: Former student from way back
Fondest Memory: Karen Burns and I had the biggest crush on you. We would stand at the end of Thornton Street in Kosciusko hoping to get a glimpse of you!
Name: Jean Wells
Relationship: Well, I first met Doc as a student in 1979. I became a member of the MC band. I also had him for theory and ear training classes. Little did I know then he would become one of the best friends I will ever have! ️
Fondest Memory: Marching with a snare drum my senior year! What was I thinking?!?! Oh yeah, I would have done anything for the band just as Doc would have. We had a special group that year and a special director.
Impact: Of course he impacted my life. He has been there every time I needed a shoulder to cry on and whenever I needed to vent my frustrations. He has given me so much advice through my life and I will always be grateful to him for that!
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: I love you Doc! Happy Birthday!
Name: Kendall Hanbery
Relationship: Father In Law
Fondest Memory: The time he was telling us a funny story and got so tickled he couldn’t even get the words out because of the laughter!
I love watching Miller and Dedaddy together! He sure loves YOU!
Impact: John always makes me feel so special and ensures that I know that he is proud of us! The way he cares for others is so genuine and we should all be a little more like Doc!
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy Birthday!!! We love you so much and can’t wait until we can be back together to celebrate!
(Sent via Dr. John Hanbery)
Name: Perrin Lamb
Relationship: I guess technically I would be friend, although in reality family is probably more appropriate.
Fondest Memory: No chance I could narrow this down to one memory, but an entire childhood. Seems like I spent more time at the Hanbery’s house than at my own. Endless hours at the pool, or playing tennis, little league games. And there was always little debbie’s in the cupboard! But the best memories for me would be a mash up of the million and a half hours ‘on the boat’. Learning to ski or just cruising the res!
Impact: John Hanbery is the hardest working man I know. Working three jobs as long as I can remember. But truly taught us the meaning of work hard play hard!
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Dr. Hanbery, I honestly don’t remember life without the Hanbery’s. You guys provided such a welcoming and supportive home for anyone who needed it. But in particular me and my family! I do as do all the Lambs, truly regard you guys as family. I hope your birthday is a happy one. I hope you can be surrounded by your children and grandchildren, who I know you are so proud of. And I hope, as you always used to say, “have a BiG time!”
Name: Kim Ashworth
Relationship: Son-in-law’s dad
Fondest Memory: John always has a great story to tell when I see him. He has seen and done a lot. His encouraging words when Reed was in Afghanistan helped me more than he will ever know. Now that he has learned to text I can count on him checking on me from time to time
Impact: I can’t imagine the number of people John has impacted. Me personally, it would be the simple phone call or text just to say hi matters. I get busy and don’t stop and do it often enough but John has shown me how it makes me feel. I need to pay it forward.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy birthday John. I hate we have to celebrate your special day in quarantine We will celebrate with you soon. Thank you for being the person you are. Your caring nature means so much to me. I hope you have a wonderful day. Love you
Name: Terry Dent
Relationship: I was in MC's band when Dr. Hanbery came to be our band director.
Fondest Memory: *I loved playing in the band so much, that after I graduated and started teaching, I would come over to MC for band practice on Friday afternoon and march with them on Saturdays.
*I played tuba and my future wife, Nancy, played bari-sax, so we met on the back row of the band. :) One semester we were playing Elsa's Procession from Lohengrin. Nancy and I looked at each other and both said, "I want this music played at my wedding." Eventually we got engaged and got married and Nancy walked down the aisle of Provine Chapel to Elsa's Procession.
*Three favorite Dr. Hanbery-isms: 1) Summer houses. Some r for men. Some r for women. 2) Stories between songs to let our lips rest. He told us about David burning his hand and how he, Dr. Hanbery, would have taken that pain if he could. After having my own son, I totally understand that sentiment. 3) Dr. Hanbery told us that we matter. That if we were absent, the band was not whole. "Empty chairs don't make a band." I knew I had a place in the MC band and that I counted.
Impact: Dr. Hanbery was a rock in the currents of college life. He was unchanging and immutable. I knew that band would be a place of solace and organization. Everything else might be crazy, but the band hall was Dr. Hanbery's throne room, and you would always feel calm. Excited about band, but calm about life.
I always list Dr. Hanbery in the top three men in my life who I look to as a prime example of how to think, act, and believe. I am who I am because Dr. Hanbery is who he is. There would be an empty chair in my life without him and my life would not be complete.
Every once in a while God graces us with a glimpse of Himself. Dr. Hanbery has shown me God.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Dr. Hanbery, I hope your day is filled with love and reminders of all the people you have touched through the years. May you catch a glimpse of the ripples that you have produced in all of us. God bless you.
Name: Mary Stewart
Relationship: I was "Mary-0boe" one of Dr. Hanbery's Music Education Students and band member from January of 78' -82' and then a graduate assistant from 82' - 84'
Fondest Memory: I was reading Silas Marner for a class during a Missisippi College Football Game while sitting in the percussion section. The Quarterback threw the ball over the head of the receiver and I dropped my book and stood up and caught the ball! And Dr. Hanbery said, " Maybe you could join the Football team and play in the band! Mary"
Impact: I would say he has encouraged every member of his bands and every student that he has taught and every choir member that he directed. I always wanted to do my best for Dr. Hanbery
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Thank-you for being a wonderful influence and encourager in my life to keep going even when I was struggling through my parent's divorce at 19. I love you and Mrs. Marybeth very much!
Name: Stan Nichols
Relationship: Dr Hanbery was my band director at Ms College. But he was so much more than that. He was my mentor, adviser, and one of the people I looked up to the most. He walked me through one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to navigate just by being there and offering comfort and advice. I will forever be grateful for his Christian example and his influence on my life. Happy Birthday Doc!!! You are loved by so many.
Fondest Memory: I wrote it all in one place!! My report card should say, “ plays well with others, but doesn’t follow directions”. Lol
Name: Nancy Dent
Relationship: I was a member of the MC Band from 1977 until 1982. I was also a music education major with an emphasis in instrumental music, and Dr. Hanbery was my professor for many of those classes, both as an undergraduate and as a graduate student. Doc has been and still is my mentor and role model.
Fondest Memory: Dr. and Mrs. Hanbery allowed me to be a part of their family. I fondly remember one evening when I was babysitting Lisa and David that Dr. and Mrs. Hanbery asked me to stay and visit. It was during that visit that Dr. Hanbery asked me how my long-distance relationship with Terry Dent was going. He told me that night that he believed in his heart that Terry and I were meant to be together, and I shouldn't let that one "get away." I took his advice...I have been married to Terry Dent for 34 years. Thanks, Doc!
Impact: Dr. Hanberry called the week before music camp in August 1977 and asked me to come to Mississippi College and try out for the band. I was already enrolled at Milsaps, but they did not have a band program..and I loved the band. After one meeting with Dr. Hanbery, I knew that MC and the MC band was where I belonged. Dr. Hanbery was more than just a band director to me; he was the example of a good and loving father that I so badly needed in my life. Rehearsals were not just about the music. Yes, I was exposed to so many wonderful pieces of orchestral music, but really, the life lessons Dr. H. gave are the things I remember the most. He taught by example, he taught from life, and he exemplified Christ in everything he did. I respect Dr. Hanbery more than my own father. Even today when asked who had the greatest influence on my life, I automatically say, "Dr. John Hanbery." I am forever changed because of John Hanbery, and I can never say "Thank you" enough for that.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Dr. Hanbery,
Thank you for all your love and support of me over these many years we have known each other. Truly, I think of you and Mrs. H. every day. Terry and I remember and share stories about our time in the MC band and with you all the time. (Sam has grown up with stories about you, and when he was little, he even said that you were my superhero . Truth from the mouth of babes.) You have been my role model and so much more. Much of how I teach today, I have patterned after you. I teach English, but I do not let one day go by without a life lesson as well.
I want you to know how much you mean to me, but there are not enough words to do that properly. I thank you and Mrs. Hanbery for your love and support and kindness. You have made a difference in my life, and I will always be thankful for that. If I can EVER do anything for you or Mrs. H., you only have to say the word. I love you, now and always.
By the way, can I call you Dad? No, I mean it.
All my love,
Nancy Conner Dent
Name: David White
Relationship: MC undergrad (1979-1983) and graduate student (1990-1992).
Fondest Memory: 1. Music Ed students planning halftime show against Delta State. Doc told us that DSU would go over their allotted time, cutting into our time. But we wanted to do our full show - so we forged ahead. Of course, game day came - DSU went over their time and Doc had to scramble to get us off the field before being trampled by the FB team.
We talked about it in class the following week and decided if faced with similar situation, we do the same thing! Doc always supported us.
2. Shortly after Doc left MC, I had a sudden, late summer opening on my band staff at Madison Central. I called Doc to see If he was interested -
When he came to my office to “interview”, he sat across from my desk and said “If we do this, you’re the boss. I do what you say”. Wow, coming from my undergrad and grad band director, advisor, mentor... a surreal moment for me.
Impact: Well, obviously, yes. Doc, you were my biggest encourager while I was a high school band director. I don’t think you missed any of my bands concert performances at state festival - always greeting me before and after with words of encouragement, no matter how well or how poorly the performance went.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: It’s a little surreal that I’m now a part-time band director at MC. I often look at the pictures displayed in the band hall and think of my undergrad years. Lots of great memories you helped create. Thank you and Happy Birthday!
Name: Todd Taylor
Relationship: Band director and mentor at Mississippi College
Fondest Memory: He LOVED telling the story of my cleaning out the uniform room, running across some Mississippi roaches and running out screeming like a girl! They don't make roaches like that in Iowa!!!
Impact: Dr. Hanbery has ALWAYS been encouraging and a positive spirit in my life. He maintained contact with me after leaving MC, which eventually lead me to one of my favorite teaching experiences at Hillcrest. This was a HUGE blessing to me and my family.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: I can't think him enough for his patience, guidance and prayers..... He knew it took me a little bit to get adjusted to life in Mississippi. I've never heard a negative or mean spirited word come from Dr. Hanbery.
He's one of the best!!!!
Name: Jamie Lamb-Eads
Relationship: Dr. John, you have been my “other” dad since I was in the 5th or 6th grade I think (and now I’m 51). Lisa and I met when our brothers were little and became friends. I spent many childhood days at your house and so many precious memories of just hanging out and always feeling welcome in your home. ️
Fondest Memory: My favorites times are being at dinner with our two families, the Lamb-berys, as we affectionately called ourselves. You would say, “Billy/Betty, here we are, all together...” No need for any other words cause we just knew it was right to be together.
Impact: I appreciate you for how hard you have always worked for your family, helping the band kids you taught and how you always made me and my family feel special!
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: I love you bunches D-Daddy and I hope we see each other very soon!
Name: Betty and Billy Lamb
Relationship: John found us by offering to help transport our three year old son from the lab school to FBC preschool along with his son. This relieved us of a big worry, and because of his initial kindness, our families became forever friends, children and grandchildren like cousins. There have been many times we survived life in a foxhole together.
Fondest Memory: We have watched John doing countless helpful things for folks. For example, we have witnessed his paying for strangers’ meals, and quietly offering help to us and others selflessly. We have always known that John has had our “six.” He tells great stories and listens intently. And....he likes little red cars!
Impact: We have witnessed John work to complete exhaustion, with limited resources, to produce an outstanding collegiate matching and symphonic bands. He has quietly moved between the high school and college band circles in the State of Mississippi and beyond to become the Senior Director that all look up to. There is “no telling” how many persons he has counseled and helped because it has all been done quietly and without regard for personal recognition.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: We truly love you John! We have too many good memories to enumerate. Happy Birthday...and every day!
Name: Cole Crosby
Relationship: He is my grandfather.
Fondest Memory: Before I had my drivers license, he would take me hunting. Just the two of us sitting in a shooting house. It didn’t matter if we killed anything, I just loved being out in the woods with my grandfather. I’m the marksman that I am today because of him. I have always been so impressed with how well he can shoot, especially when dove hunting. I can honestly say he killed 9 out of every 10 doves he shot at. I hope to be able to do that someday.
Impact: He has had an enormous impact on my life since the day I was born. I am who I am because of him. Although he has never directly scolded me, the fear of letting him down far outweighs my fear of receiving any verbal correction. I have held myself to a high standard across every facet of my life because of the morals he instilled in me. For every situation I encounter, there is an applicable “Dedaddy quote”. I’ll never forget the lessons he’s taught me, and I’ll proudly pass them on to my kids and grandkids. I only hope I’m half the grandfather he’s been to me.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy Birthday! Thank you for investing in me over the last 23 years. I’ll never take your advice for granted, and I am always looking forward to the next opportunity to learn something from you.
Name: Duncan Goff
Relationship: Student, co-worker, friend
Fondest Memory: When Dr. HANBERY came to Madison Central we were in Mr. Kent’s office where he had a cut out of John Wayne. Dr. HANBERY then gave a total history lesson about John Wayne. His knowledge, wisdom, and delivery is always amazing!
Impact: Dr. HANBERY is always listening, insightful, encouraging, uplifting, inspiring and current. His words fill you up and move you in more ways than you can imagine. He truly blesses and leaves everyone he comes in contact with in a better place. He shows true concern for each human being and my love for him runs very deep and strong.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: You have been a teacher, mentor, friend, father figure, brother, co-worker, counselor, and so many things in my life. I am a better person because of your encouragement, love and concern for my life and family. Thank you for being a part of my life and enriching it with your overwhelming love and support. Happy Birthday and may God bless you and your family! I cannot put into words the love I have in my heart for you and what you mean to me. Just know that I think about you often and pray blessings on you and your family daily! Duncan Goff
Name: Shane Sprayberry
Relationship: Former student. Adopted son.
Fondest Memory: Every memory we make is better than the last. While at MC I enjoyed being a part of his bands and hearing lots of his stories...scary or funny I enjoyed it all. The best thing is that he was one my 'boss' and I've had the chance to be his boss at Hinds CC. My students love you to, Dr. Hanbery. Great times!
Impact: He's easily in the top 5 most influential men in my life. From teacher to father he's been there to guide me and help me lead me through making decisions about my career, life, and band in general. You'd be hard pressed to find another band director that takes the time to tell you how proud he is of you and be your biggest fan.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Hey Doc. I want you to know that you mean the world to me. Your influence on my life and many others is a legacy that many people can only dream of achieving. Thank you for believing in me, nurturing me, leading me, discipling me, and being my biggest advocate. You will never know what you mean to me. Thank you for being YOU!
Name: Sherry Collum
Relationship: Richard and imet John through his wonderful wife, Mary Beth. We’re friends!
Fondest Memory: We have always enjoyed our time with John. He is full of knowledge and interesting stories.
Impact: John and Mary Beth have been treasured friends of ours for a long time.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: John, Richard and I are wishing you the happiest of birthdays!
Name: Lewis Oswalt
Relationship: Colleague (and friend) at Mississippi College and active participant in Mississippi Baptist church music for many years.
Fondest Memory: Having the opportunity to lead revival music at Pocahontas on two occasions while he was minister of music there.
Impact: John has been a steadfast friend through the years, and I am grateful for his continued friendship. He was a positive influence on many students during the time we worked together.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Time for us to get together again soon (when it's safe, of course)!
Name: Lisa Crosby
Relationship: I know him well! He’s my daddy!
Fondest Memory: I can’t wait to call him every morning on the way to work! And three more times throughout the day! I always get great advice, funny stories, but mostly an ear that is always ready to listen.
Impact: There has never been a day that passed that he didn’t impact my life through his sacrifices, steadfast love, and Godly example.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy Birthday
Name: Kaylan Crosby
Relationship: Grandfather
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy Birthday to the sweetest Dedaddy in the whole world. You always make sure we have the best times together as a family. I love you!
Name: Carley Crosby
Relationship: Granddaughter
Fondest Memory: I love to send him funny videos! It is hilarious to watch him crack up when he watches them!
I also love how he always has a plan A, plan B, and sometimes C.
Impact: When I am around him, I always know that he will take care of me and make sure I have everything I need. I love how he always tells me he is proud of me.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy Birthday
Name: Michael Lemon
Relationship: Family member
Fondest Memory: Enjoying family time during the Christmas holiday.
Impact: His commitment to the importance of family and His faith.
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Your steady and unwavering commitment to family and your faith helped to shape my life.
Name: Natalie Taylor
Relationship: Stand in granddaughter!!!
Fondest Memory: The day at Hilton head when he told me that he would be my stand-in grandfather!!!
Impact: Dedaddy has made me smarter and wiser with all his amazing advise. He has made me feel the love of being a grandchild again!!
A Note to Dr. John Hanbery: Happy birthday Dedaddy!! One of the greatest things about my relationship with Cole is that I got two amazing grandparents out of the deal. Thank you for taking me in as your own and loving me. For you I am eternally grateful. I love you dedaddy!!!