In memoriam: Darryl Flinn, 1935-2024

In memoriam: Darryl Flinn, 1935-2024

The Barbershop Harmony Society celebrates the life of a rare leader, musician and friend.

The Barbershop Harmony Society mourns the passing of Darryl Flinn, age 89, a barbershop giant in every sense of the word.

Inducted into the BHS Hall of Fame in 2010, Darryl held the distinction of being the only person to have served as Society President (1987), Society Executive Director (1996-2004), and quartet gold medalist (Harmony, 2001 seniors champion.)

Darryl’s musical skills served the barbershop world throughout his barbershop life. In addition to directing his hometown Canton, Ohio, Hall of Fame Chorus and Sweet Adelines International City of Flags Chorus for many years, he was an exceptional chorus and quartet coach. Many quartets under his guidance advanced to the top ranks of international competition, including several gold medalists.

He began his service as BHS Contest judge in 1973, first as a Harmony Accuracy judge, then as a Sound judge, Sound Category Specialist, Chairman of Judges for contests, and as a judge in the Singing category.

Darryl’s leadership and administrative achievements span many decades, including serving as Johnny Appleseed District President 1979-80, Society Board member 1981-84, Harmony Foundation Treasurer 1986, and SPEBSQSA International President 1987.

Hired as executive director in 1996, he oversaw significant growth in outreach, music publications, and membership development programs. While living in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Darryl connected with co-workers Reed Sampson (bass) and Joe Liles (lead), along with Rudy Zarling (tenor) to form Harmony, which won the seniors quartet championship in 2001.

“D” is survived by his wife Meredith, and successive generations of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Memorial arrangements are to be announced; see the official online obituary for details.