Alexander H. "Coolie" Johns

Alexander H. "Coolie" Johns May 17, 1931 April 3, 2012 Portland - One of Maine's musical giants, Alexander ""Coolie"" Johns, age 80, of Portland passed away on April 3, 2012 at Mercy Hospital after a long illness. He was born in Portland on May 17, 1931, the son of Harry and Kaliope Johns. ""Coolie"" was the youngest of four brothers who lived on Mechanic St., Portland during their growing up years. He began studying piano at an early age and went on to become one of Maine's best musicians. While in the US Navy, he composed, arranged and performed some of the Navy's best musical presentations, winning accolades from Officers, enlisted men and the Top Navy Brass. Coolie was offered a commission and other perks by the Navy to stay in the service, but instead chose to leave and continue with his music career. He attended Berkeley School of Music in Boston, MA and graduated from the School of Music at Gorham State Teachers College (now USM-Gorham) in 1962. Coolie was recognized as a consummate musician by all who knew or came in contact with him, whether as a player, leader, composer or arranger in some of the most successful music groups in Maine and New England, including the Don Doane Big Band, the Al Corey Orchestra, Herb Pomeroy Big Band, Terry White Band and various smaller groups of singers and instrumentalists. He later taught piano, orchestration and music theory privately. Many of his private students have gone on to great musical heights and recognition, even nationally. Coolie had a great sense of humor and could always make someone laugh with his quirky, and often baffling, banter on almost any subject. He loved jokes and slapstick humor. Often his friends and relatives were the brunt of his gentle but biting satire. In addition to his musical genius and accomplishments, he was above all - to his fellow musicians - a true friend, willing to share his knowledge and skills with everyone. He is survived by his brothers Nicholas of Danbury, CT, Thomas of Falmouth, and John of Portland. He is also survived by his companion, Kay Cannon, of Portland. Coolie had no children of his own but is survived by several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. There will be no services but a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Assistance and guidance provided by A.T. Hutchins, LLC, 660 Brighton Ave in Portland. To offer words of condolence to the family, sign a guest book and share memories, go to the obituary page at www.athutchins.com

Alexander H. "Coolie" Johns

May 17, 1931 - April 3, 2012

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