Gerald Douglas Fagan, 84, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 25, 2026.
Born February 15, 1942 in Scottsville, Texas to Emmitt and Callie Fagan, Gerald developed a lifelong love of music at an early age. Despite overcoming the effects of polio as a child, he dedicated his life to music education and became one of the most respected band directors in Texas.
Gerald earned his Bachelor of Music degree from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1964 and later earned his Master of Arts degree in 1973. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he served as a band director in numerous East Texas school districts including Big Sandy, Joaquin, Troup, Hallsville, Center, Rusk, Tarkington, Corrigan-Camden and Livingston. His bands earned numerous sweepstakes awards and first division honors at UIL competitions.
Following retirement, Gerald continued sharing his love of music by leading the Livingston community band and community jazz band. Gerald was also a devoted man of God who faithfully led music in his church for many years. He expressed his faith not only through worship but also through songwriting, writing songs that reflected his deep belief and love for the Lord. He was inducted into the Phi Beta Mu Texas Bandmasters Hall of Fame in recognition of his impact on music education across Texas.
Gerald deeply loved his family and shared 45 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Bobbie.
He is survived by his wife, Bobbie; his sister, Karen Lewis and husband Derrick; his children Susan Scott and husband Lindsay, Sharon Holmes and husband Mark, Shelley Cruz, Jerry Fagan, Christy Lymbery and Merideth Smith and husband Larry; along with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, colleagues, and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmitt and Callie Fagan; his brother, Frank Fagan; and his son-in-law, David Lymbery.
A celebration of Gerald’s life will be held on June 20, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Serenity Spring in Livingston, Texas.
