Bernard Foy, Sr.

Bernard Foy, Sr., Golden Outlook, 1966

Bernard Foy, Sr. (1929-1985) was somewhat of a child prodigy, graduating from Atkins High School at age 14 and earning his bachelor's degree in music education from Winston-Salem Teachers College at 18. He also earned a master's degree from the University of Michigan. Part of a family steeped in education, Foy followed that path, serving Forsyth County youth as a music teacher and director of the county's music program for nearly 40 years. Students and family remember him as someone who had an "uncompromising standard of excellence." Foy was also a talented musician, referred to as a "musician's musician" because he understood the craft so well. After his passing, a member of the "Marching 100" said students "always wanted [Foy] to be proud of us." The band room at Paisley Magnet School was named for him in 2015 because of his work shaping the music program.

Video: Dothula Baron, Paisley class of 1966, discusses the impact of her teacher Bernard Foy, Sr.