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By Jocelyn Torres, for the SNAP

The Stanly County Historical Society gathered at First Presbyterian Church in Albemarle to celebrate the legacy of eight influential musicians who left a lasting impact on the community.
The event brought together family members, music enthusiasts and historians to honor these individuals and their contributions to Stanly County’s rich musical heritage.
Among those honored was Margie Mauney, whose legacy was presented by Billie Jo Bunn.
Mauney served as the organist for Central Methodist Church in Albemarle for 54 years, where she played a vital role in the church’s music program. In addition to her dedication to the church, she taught organ, piano and violin, performing at hundreds of weddings throughout and beyond Stanly County.
Bunn described Mauney as an “exceptional piano player.”
Katherine Almond was remembered by Charlotte Maness, who spoke of Almond’s lifelong devotion to music education. Almond was appointed the public school music supervisor for Albemarle schools in 1936, a position she held for 40 years. She also taught music classes at Stanly Community College and was one of the founding members of the Stanly County Concert Association, now in its 78th year.
“She just loved teaching,” said Maness, adding that nothing gave her more joy than introducing a wonderful piece of music to others.
Tom Hearne shared fond memories of his aunt, Mary Hearne, who was born in Albemarle and graduated in 1923. For decades, she taught piano, fostering a deep appreciation for music among her students.
Mary Hearne was instrumental in founding the Stanly County Chorale in 1968, the longest-running performing arts organization in the county.
Keith Wolf honored Paul Frye, who began teaching in Albemarle in 1933 and established the choral program at Albemarle Senior High School.
Wolf described Fry as having “a bright sense of humor and a high standard of learning which made him a popular teacher.”
In addition to his work in education, Fry served as the organist and choir director at First Presbyterian Church for 35 years and was a founding member of the Stanly County Concert Association. He also became the first southern regional director of the American Choral Association.
Frank Poolos shared his admiration for Tommy Hauss, a music educator who studied at Appalachian State University and pursued a teaching career alongside his wife, Mary Ann.
Tommy Hauss worked with school bands for more than 40 years, leaving an impact on students, families and the broader community.
Poolos, who had the opportunity to direct under Hauss, remarked, “He touched the lives of so many students, community members, and families.”
Mary Jo Morton Russell paid tribute to her mother, Joann Morton, who came from a family with a deep-rooted passion for music.
Morton taught at New London Elementary and later founded the service choir at First Baptist Church.
Russell reflected on her mother’s love for music, which had been passed down through generations.
Stuart Jones shared his experiences as a piano student of Annyce Worsham, whose educational background included studies at Greensboro College, Juilliard School of Music, Peabody Institute and Chicago Music College.
Worsham began teaching piano at Albemarle Senior High School in 1930 before moving to Central Elementary School and eventually teaching private lessons. She devoted 60 years to teaching piano in Stanly County, continuing lessons at her home until the age of 92.
Jones recalled her telling him, “With other instruments, you can play only two parts, but with the piano, it’s like having a full orchestra with you at all times.”
Worsham was also a founding member of the Albemarle chapter of the National Guild of Piano Teachers.
Marie Jones was honored by her son, Bain Jones, who spoke of his mother’s deep connection with her students and the friendships she formed throughout her career.
Marie Jones taught choral music and served as the organist and choir director at First Lutheran Church, where she established numerous music programs, including the Children’s Choir, Youth Choir and Chancellor Choir.
Jones expressed how much his mother loved her students, as well as the church members and friends of Stanly County.
Throughout the evening, attendees shared fond memories of these musicians, reflecting on their lasting influence and sharing laughter over cherished stories. The event concluded with an organ performance by Michael Rowland, organist at First Presbyterian Church.
This event was part of the ongoing program series hosted by the Stanly County Historical Society. The next event, titled “Boone’s America: Boone’s Trace, 1775,” is scheduled for March 18. For more information about upcoming events, visit the Stanly County History Center Facebook page.

Jocelyn Torres is a freelance writer for The Stanly News & Press.