Robert D. McCashin

Held Long Career In Music Education

• Thursday, August 10, 2023

Robert D. McCashin

The family of Robert D. McCashin, DMA, of Chattanooga is saddened to announce his passing on August 5, 2023, at the age of 74.

Dr. McCashin was professor emeritus and former Director of Orchestras and Professor of Conducting at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. After retiring from a 43-year career in music education, and the passing of his beloved wife, Charlie, he had recently relocated to Chattanooga to be near family.

A Chattanooga native, Dr. McCashin earned Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in violin performance from Louisiana State University, where he met his wife Clarine ("Charlie") Bellard, and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in conducting from the University of Arizona.

Prior to his position at James Madison University, Dr. McCashin served on the faculties of the University of Texas at Arlington and Texas Wesleyan University, and was the founding conductor of the Arlington Youth Symphony. In addition to teaching, he enjoyed guest conducting both all-state and regional orchestras and has written, arranged and published an extensive library of music for orchestra and for string educational programs.

Dr. McCashin was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Charlie, his parents C.E. and Frances D. McCashin, and by his eldest brother, George E. McCashin. He is survived by his siblings C. R. "Rick" (Ellen) McCashin, Alice McCashin (Daniel) Jenkins, sister-in-law Cindy (George) McCashin, niece Rebecca E. McCashin, and nephew Neill T. Everhart.

Dr. McCashin will be remembered for all the heart he shared with his friends, colleagues, students and family. He truly loved each of them, and he will be missed dearly.

There will be no service by request. The family will honor Bob with a simple gathering of family and friends scheduled for Aug. 15, from 5-7 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home in Chattanooga at 7454 East Brainerd Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research at donations@michaeljfox.org.

Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.

Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel