Beloved WHS Music Teacher Passes Away

In March 2011, Peter Landsdowne wrote a touching tribute to his high school music teacher, Larry Forand. The article elicited comments and memories on both Westborough Patch and our Facebook page, showing the impact Mr. Forand had on his students.

Lawrence “Larry” Forand, formerly of Westborough, a longtime professional musician, teacher and family man, died Thursday after a brief illness. He was 88.

Born March 21, 1924 in Webster, Larry served in the US Marine Corps in the South Pacific (Guadalcanal) during World War II. He performed as a professional musician with the Big Bands; worked as an accomplished music teacher and academic administrator in Massachusetts and Broward County, Florida; and enjoyed being a loving husband and father.

Upon his return to San Diego from serving overseas, Larry’s became instrumental in the US Marine Corps Band until his discharge into civilian life.

Larry’s musical prowess with the trumpet enabled him to become a key contributor in the Big Band phenomenon during which time he played with a number of the notable orchestras, most especially the Ray McKinley Band, for years. 

He later pursued his college degree at the Boston Conservatory of Music and became one of the most highly respected music teachers and administrators in Massachusetts (with the ) and eventually South Florida.  

Larry continued to perform professionally in orchestras, playing with top performers such as Tony Bennett, Diana Ross, Bobby Darin, Juliette Prowse, Andy Williams and Johnnie Mathis. He also sat first chair in the brass section of the orchestra selected to play President Nixon’s Inaugural Ball in Washington, DC.

Larry’s greatest sense of accomplishment included his three daughters – Barbara, Denise and Michele. Throughout his life, he watched with joy and pride the many professional and personal achievements made by each of these women.  

In 1989, he lost his wife of 44 years and mother of his children, Marion, to cancer. Larry then met and married Norma Rodin of Ft. Lauderdale and enjoyed a 22-year marriage to her until his death. 

He is survived by his wife, Norma; his brother, Norman Forand and wife, Peggy; and his daughters and son-in-laws:  Barbara and Tom Kimball of Santa Fe, NM; Michele and Craig Williamson of Palm Beach Gardens and Washington, DC; and Denise and Gary Nagle of Palm Beach Gardens, FL. He is also survived by his grandchildren, daughter-in-law and great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made in his name to the Hospice of the Palm Beaches (FL) at JFK Hospital, 5301 S. Congress Ave., Lake Worth, FL 33462.

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