Heather Bell
RADFORD – Former Radford High School Bobcat Marching Band Director Bill Bondurant is being honored with a day just for him, as Radford City Council recently proclaimed Friday, Oct. 11 as Bill Bondurant Day.
The Bobcat Marching Band members from 1977 through 1985, when Bondurant was band director, has a reunion planned for Oct. 11 and 12 during which they will honor Bondurant for his “many outstanding accomplishments of his time working with Radford students,” according to the city council proclamation.
The proclamation also notes Bondurant’s “service and dedication to the City of Radford” and the close relationships he developed with his students.
Bill Bondurant’s students “developed close relationships and dedicated work ethics that have endured for decades, thanks to the values and environment established by Bill…[he] has contributed greatly to the high quality of life in the City of Radford and with other communities in which he has lent his talents,”the proclamation notes.
Jennifer Bondurant, Bill’s daughter, said the family is proud of the lives her dad has touched through music.
“My dad is known by many as an excellent real estate agent, having practiced locally since 1986; however, he is most widely and affectionately known as “Mr B.,” the man behind the Radford High School marching band,” said Jennifer. “A 1971 graduate of RHS, and standout band member, he returned to his alma mater and served as band director from 1977 through 1985. He has since volunteered countless hours with his beloved band.”
“My dad’s generosity of time and talent has steered the band to many successes,” Jennifer added. “But the contribution that has touched the most, and which inspired this weekend’s honors, is the gift of his character.”
“In addition to time spent with the marching band and its students, he maintains a focus on his family. He enjoys time with his daughters and grandchildren (who have affectionately dubbed him “Bandpa”), as well as caring for his beloved wife,my mom Becca, who is facing several health challenges. His gentle and steadfast character is a cornerstone in our family,” Jennifer concluded.
She has some suggestions for how people in the community can honor the day set aside for her dad.
“I would suggest: First, do something selfless for a loved one. Second, use what brings you joy to enrich your community. Finally, go enjoy the Bobcat Band during Friday’s halftime show!
Go Bobcats!”