William "Bill" Ray Coltrane

William “Bill” Ray Coltrane
April 15, 1939 – March 31, 2025

William “Bill” Ray Coltrane, 85, of Ottawa, Kansas, passed away in Wichita, Kansas, on March 31, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Born on April 15, 1939, in Ottawa, Kansas, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Vera Lea Corbin, his stepson Michael Green, his parents Ralph William Coltrane and Ada Lorene Bricker Coltrane, and his sister Rebecca “Becky” Wisdom.

He is survived by his sister Mary Amburgy (Randel) and his children: William Stalcup (Gwen), Stephen Stalcup (Stacey), Laurie Reed (Josh), Bradly Coltrane, and stepdaughter Lyndi Green. Bill was a cherished grandfather to nine grandchildren, a great-grandfather to sixteen, and a great-great-grandfather to two, in addition to many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bill graduated from Ottawa High School in 1957 and went on to earn a degree in music from Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri. His passion for music led him to pursue a Master’s degree in teaching with a major in voice at Washburn University, where he served as a student teacher at East Indianola, Capitol View USD 345, and Topeka High School, teaching everything from elementary music to string symphony. During this time, he also managed the sheet music department and provided private lessons at Jenkins Music Store.

Bill’s dedication to music education continued as he became a music teacher at Crane Junior High School. He studied Vocal Performance at Emporia State University, where he participated in the opera. His journey later took him to Virginia, where he continued teaching music, sang in various church choirs, served as a long-time choir director, and was hired out as a chanter in a Jewish synagogue.

In 2002, Bill returned to Ottawa, Kansas, where he taught at Ottawa High School. He worked with students of all grade levels, led the Cytones (the high school’s show choir), organized fall musicals, and collaborated with the band director on various programs. Bill retired after five years, after dedicating his life to the passion of teaching and sharing his love of music.

Bill’s impact on his students was profound and lasting. Many have shared touching memories of his kindness, mentorship, and unwavering support. As one student expressed, “You were there for all of us through one of the trickiest phases of our lives and you put up with all of our shenanigans with a good spirit. You will be so missed by so many.”

He created a safe and welcoming space where students could be their authentic selves and develop their musical talents. His passion for music was infectious, sparking creativity and confidence in everyone he taught.

His family will remember him for his love of music, his warmth, humor, and gentle spirit—traits that made him a wonderful teacher, and a kind father, grandfather, and friend.

Though his voice may be quiet now, his legacy echoes on through the countless lives he touched with his music, kindness, and love.

"Music can change the world because it can change people." – Bono

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” – Plato

A Celebration of Life will be held at Via Christi Village Georgetown, 1655 S. Georgetown, Wichita, Kansas 67218 on April 12, 2025, at 3:30 PM.

Additional services will be held in Ottawa, Kansas in May 2025. Details pending.

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