Rodney Carney Boyd

Rodney "Ronn" Carney Boyd, a distinguished musician and dedicated educator, passed away on March 2, 2026, in Topeka, Kansas. Rodney was born on September 27, 1943, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the son of Victor Vogel and Ora Nell Carney (Causey) Boyd. He married Sylvia Louise Kendrick on August 15, 1965, in Memphis, Tennessee. She passed on March 30, 2018.

Boyd's journey through music and education left an indelible mark on countless students and colleagues throughout his illustrious career.

An accomplished musician, Boyd showcased his talent as the principal bassoonist of the Topeka Symphony Orchestra from 1968 until 1999. He also contributed his skills to the Bloomington-Normal Symphony during the 1966-1967 season. Known for his exceptional artistry, he presented solo recitals across various states, including Kansas, Louisiana, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, Tennessee, and Mississippi. His performances at conventions of the International Double Reed Society in Evanston, Illinois; Baltimore, Maryland; and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, further highlighted his commitment to the world of music. Additionally, he was selected to perform with the National Association of College Wind and Percussion Instructors Chamber Ensemble for its Minneapolis Convention and recognized for his talents in the International Who's Who of Musicians.

Education was a cornerstone of Boyd's career. He graduated from Istrouma High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and furthered his studies at Louisiana State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Music Education in 1965. He continued his education at Illinois State University, obtaining a Master of Music Education in 1966. His quest for knowledge took him to Boston University, where he completed coursework toward a Doctor of Musical Arts Degree and engaged in additional bassoon studies with esteemed principal bassoonists Sherman Walt of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Leonard Sharrow of the NBC Symphony Orchestra. Boyd was also trained in bassoon reed making by Louis Skinner, principal bassoonist with the Baltimore MD Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to his musical accomplishments, Boyd devoted a significant portion of his life to teaching. He began his teaching career at Angola (Indiana) High School from 1966 to 1968. He then joined the faculty of Washburn University in 1968, serving with distinction until 2002. He held the position of Associate Chairman from 1985 to 2000 and continued to share his expertise by teaching part-time until 2002. Throughout his tenure, he taught courses in Bassoon, Oboe, and Music Theory, and maintained private double reed studios from 1964 to 2002, nurturing the next generation of musicians.

Rodney Carney Boyd's contributions to music education and performance were profound and far-reaching. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his students and through the music that continues to inspire. He is remembered not only for his remarkable skill but also for his unwavering dedication to the art of music and the development of his students.

Memorial contributions can be made to Washburn University Department of Music, Music Scholarship Fund, 1700 SW College, Topeka, KS 66621 or to the Tanglewood Music Center Fellowship Funds through the link provided here https://give.bso.org/dEiyL7 .

His wishes were for cremation, and there are no services planned at this time. His final resting place will be in Portland, Maine.