Samuel Russell Cosby Jr., 97, teacher and choral director

Samuel Russell Cosby Jr., 97, of Mount Airy, an organist, schoolteacher, and choral director who blended the sounds of the human voice into a melodic tapestry, died Monday, April 27, of a heart attack at his home.

A Philadelphian who grew up on Godfrey Avenue, Mr. Cosby showed an early affinity and talent for music. He attended Corinthian Baptist Church along with the rest of his family, and shortly after his graduation from Central High School at age 19 became the organist for Mount Olivet Tabernacle Baptist Church.

Mr. Cosby graduated in 1944 with a bachelor of science degree in music education from West Chester University, and then studied voice at the Juilliard School of Music. By 1950, he had earned both a bachelor's and a master of science degree in voice. He did further study in music at Columbia and Yale Universities.

He worked as a music teacher for the Philadelphia School District and directed the William Penn High School choir until 1982. Mr. Cosby performed the same duties at Clarence E. Pickett Middle School in 1982-83, and at the Bodine High School for International Affairs from 1983 until retiring in 1993.

He was known for his relentless pursuit of excellence in all phases of life, but his work with choirs and choral groups was his forte. His booming baritone - like that of the actor James Earl Jones - instantly commanded the attention of singers.

"His extensive education, musical insight, and organizational acumen enabled him to take small and large numbers of individual voices and weave them expertly into a unified, melodic tapestry of exquisite beauty," his family said in a tribute. "All those who appreciate the sound of the human voice in song will miss his talent, vision, and leadership."

From 1959 to 1960, he participated in a teacher exchange program between William Penn High School and Latymer Upper School in London. He was commended by the Philadelphia School District after completing the exchange.

In 1966, he went on sabbatical leave to visit, teach, and perform in many different countries.

He was a member of the National Association of Negro Musicians Inc., Opera North, the W. Russell Johnson Music Guild, and other musical and cultural organizations.

"Mr. Cosby leaves behind a legacy of musical excellence populated by innumerable students, grateful church parishioners, and national and international dignitaries, all of whom were blessed to have been either taught by - or musically inspired by - him," his family said.

Mr. Cosby is survived by nieces and nephews.

A service of remembrance will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 9, at Tindley Temple United Methodist Church, 750 S. Broad St.. A viewing will be from 9 a.m. until 11. Interment is private.