Rolland 'Woody' Hurst, 90

Born on Aug. 24, 1932, music was woven into Woody’s soul. In his own words, “Music is in my blood.” Known for his rich bass-baritone voice, he earned his B.A. in music education and performance and received his M.M. in voice and opera. He was a highly acclaimed professional singer and actor in NYC while working on his doctorate. Besides landing roles on Broadway, he was a soloist with the world-famous Robert Shaw Chorale and New York Philharmonic.

Professor emeritus at Fresno State University, Woody directed the opera and musical theater workshops, concert and jazz choirs, and men’s and women’s choruses and taught applied voice, guitar, piano, choral arranging and other courses. He also directed church choirs and performed with Fresno Opera Association and Fresno Community Theater.

After retiring to Hayden, Idaho, Woody stayed active as a soloist with the Spokane Symphony Chorale and Chorale Cd'A, trombonist with the Panhandle Symphony Orchestra, and lead actor in Coeur d’Alene’s Lake City Playhouse and Cd'A Summer Theatre productions.

Woody was a great storyteller, and his children and grandchildren have wonderful memories of his off-the-cuff bedtime stories, especially “Mr. Tears.” He was also a prolific composer. His abundant compositions are treasured reflections of his life and love for the Lord.

On Jan. 16, 2023, in Coeur d’Alene, Woody moved to his heavenly home. In his final weeks, though bedridden, he would break out in song, praising God! He earnestly prayed that everyone he knew would know Jesus. Woody’s life made a difference, and he was deeply loved by many.

A memorial celebration of his life will be June 17, 2023, at 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 521 E. Lakeside Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814.

Please visit Rolland W. Hurst memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com for “the rest of the story.”