Frank Harrold, founder and director of the Memorial Lancers Drum and Bugle Corps, died of cancer in his home March 3, 2007.
Born in 1922, Harrold was one of 16 siblings and attended Kinloch High School, but left in his junior year. He served eight years as a sergeant of the Kinloch Police Department and taught Sunday school at Memorial Baptist Church.
During a trip to New York, Harrold saw churches with drum and bugle corps and was inspired to start one in his own home town. In 1958, with money from a tax return, he purchased three snare drums, two bass drums, two pair of cymbals and 10 bugles for a total of $800 to start the Memorial Lancers. The drum and bugle corps marched in the Annie Malone Parade for 35 consecutive years.
Harrold leaves to cherish his memory 14 children: Frank A. Harrold Jr., William Harrold, Floyd Harrold, Norman Harrold, Lynn Harrold, Marcus Bell, Jeramika Bell, Dashuna (Bell) Mills, Kelley (Bell) King, Vilena Bell, Charlesetta Harrold, Darlice Harrold, Leroy Harrold and Cierra Hughes. His daughter, Yvonne Brenda Harrold-McGill preceded him in death.
A wake and memorial reunion will be held at Randle Eddie and Sons Funeral Home, 4600 Natural Bridge, March 8 from 2-8 p.m. The funeral will take place at St. Michael’s Temple, 1507 East College, March 9 at 11 a.m. Contact Norman Harrold at (314) 709-2761 or William Harrold at (314) 435-6650.