Dr. Dwight Dean Gatwood Jr., son of Dwight Dean Gatwood Sr. and Grace Opal Gentry passed away from a cardiac arrest on July 17 at the age of 80 after battling Parkinson’s disease for decades. He was the oldest of three children, born in Nashville, TN on August 26, 1942. He graduated from Model High School in Richmond, KY, Eastern Kentucky State College (now Eastern Kentucky University), and George Peabody College for Teachers (now part of Vanderbilt).

During his career as a college professor, he taught at LaGrange College, and began the music department at Columbia State Community College, developing its music curriculum. He then taught at Defiance College, and finished his teaching career at the University of Tennessee at Martin, where he taught until his retirement in 2008.

At UTM he was a baritone soloist, performing many works in solo recitals, concerts, and as a member of the West Tennessee Vocal Quartet along with his wife, Dianne.   In addition to singing, Dr. Gatwood performed as a member of the UTM faculty trombone quartet, and was treasurer of the Society for Electro-Acoustic Music in the U.S (SEAMUS).

Dr. Gatwood was a gifted composer, writing many works for electronic music and for vocal solos and ensembles, as well as many compositions for his church choirs. His musical compositions span several decades, and include the UT Martin Alma Mater and bicentennial celebration composition, “Forever UTM”, both of which are featured daily on the campus carillon.

Dr. Gatwood was honored by UTM for his many accomplishments and contributions to UTM by dedicating the World Music Room in their new music building to him.

Dr. Gatwood was also the director of various church choirs, culminating in more than 33 years at First United Methodist Church in Huntingdon, TN, and the new choir room addition there was dedicated to him and his wife, Dianne, for their many years of service.

He is survived by his wife of almost 52 years, Dianne Gatwood, his son, David Gatwood, and daughter, Lisa Gatwood, as well as his brother, Joseph Gatwood, his sister, Carole Gatwood, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is beloved by his many friends, family, and former students, who have described him as the epitome of what a teacher should be, and one to be emulated in their own teaching.

Dr. Gatwood had a huge impact on the lives of many people, and he will be sorely missed by all.

Arrangements are to be announced.

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