Thomas Sheets (1952-2014)
We are saddened to report that Thomas Sheets, former choir director at First Baptist and former UMS Choral Union conductor, passed away suddenly on April 24, 2014. In the photo above, he conducts the annual Handel’s Messiah performance in 1993. Thomas also worked at the First United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor and at St. John’s Episcopal Parish in Detroit.
Thomas served as UMS Choral Union music director between 1993 and 2003. UMS President Ken Fischer remembers, “In a very short time, Thomas undertook a number of initiatives that are now significant components of the Choral Union experience. Thomas launched Summer Sings, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last year, and began a relationship with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra that led to the Choral Union becoming the large chorus that performs regularly with the DSO. What a remarkable legacy! Thomas also built relationships with many regional orchestras, providing the Choral Union members with many new and expanded opportunities to perform the great choral repertoire. Our thoughts and prayers are with Thomas’ family and friends.”
Thomas Sheets was 62 years old. The funeral service took place at St. Luke Episcopal Church in Prescott, Arizona. A memorial will take place locally on Saturday, May 17, 2014 at 11 am at First Baptist Church in Ann Arbor.
