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Linwood Erb poses for a photo in 2011 with grandson, Zachary Oliver, the recipient of The Linwood Erb Award at Southside Middle School for the student who best exemplifies character and musicianship in the SMS band.

Former band director had "easy charm"

By Leigh Anne Butler

Tallassee High School’s beloved former band director, Linwood Erb, passed away Saturday, May 1 at the age of 76.

Erb was a talented musician that led the Pride of Tallassee for seven years from 1987-1993. Before coming to Tallassee, he served as band director at Marion, Fitzgerald, Ga., and Elba. 

Michael Bird, music teacher at Tallassee High School, offered, “Since his retirement, he has been a fixture on our campuses in Tallassee, always willing to conduct a rehearsal, teach a private lesson, or even give words of wisdom and advice to young band directors. Mr. Erb’s easy charm, quiet grace and professional demeanor created a legacy that lives on.”

Erb graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery in 1964. He went on to receive a degree in music education from Troy State University. While at Troy, he marched in the “Sound of the South” marching band under the direction of Dr. Johnny Long. He was an All-State clarinet player and saxophonist.

Erb served in the U.S. Navy and was a member of the 151st Army National Guard Band for 24 years. 

Erb is survived by his wife, Margaret Erb; children Staci Oliver, Scott Erb, Ashley Tollison, Brent Slay, Douglas Slay and Rebecca Edmondson; and 17 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Oscar and Mattie Erb, an infant brother and his wife, Linda Erb. 

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 4 at 1 p.m. at First United Methodist Church in Tallassee, where Erb was a member. Pastor Clint McBroom will officiate and burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Troy University Band Alumni Scholarship, c/o Paige Fell, Treasurer, 128 Kentwood Way, Alabaster, Alabama 35007.