William Price
William Price, 80, graduated to a higher level on Monday, November 12, 2018, surrounded by family.
He was born Feb. 10, 1938, in Chattanooga, Tn., to the late Viva price and Burell Bryant.
He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Edwin Price, Alton Cavett, sister, Lillie Price, and nephews, Anthony and Edward Price.
William was a graduate of Howard High School, Class of 1956 and honored his country by serving in the United States Navy receiving an honorable discharge, and went on to receiving his bachelor’s degree from Tennessee State University.
He was also an avid reader of biblical literature and one of the “Great Debaters”.
William was a walking encyclopedia of local music history and the “Big Nine”.
Some of his most notable accomplishments was being honored by the National Association of Negro Musicians for his musical services; an annual scholarship in his name given by Jazzanooga and Billboard murals by Mark Making.
While in high school, William was a member of a group called Three Roosters and a Chick later known as “The Impressions”, and Rick Upshaw, BTS ensemble, Chattanooga Gospel Orchestra, Cadek Community Orchestra, Chattanooga Community Orchestra, Danny Sample Trio, MAXTIAM, American Legian Big Band, Spectrum Jazz Band and other groups as called upon.
He is survived by wife of 49 years, Conious, children, Mendon, Jonique, Autumn and Quiante (Shanta) Price; grandchildren, Jerell, Trinique, Trivontae, Sarkeija, Aleigra, William, Chyna, Azia, Quiante Jr., Deuant, six great-granchildren; nieces, Sharon Hardy and Edwina Baker, a devoted mother-in-law, Beverly L. Wilson, and several nieces and nephews.
The body will lie in state beginning at noon on Sunday, Nov. 18, and family visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. at John P. Franklin Funeral Home.
The funeral service will be held on Monday, Nov. 19, at 11 a.m. at New City Fellowship. Interment will be in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Arrangements are by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 622-9995.