Alice Scheld Obituary

Alice T. Scheld HICKORY, NC - Alice T. Scheld, formerly of Charleston, passed away on December 28 in Hickory, NC after a 30-year journey with Parkinson's. Alice was born in Dyersburg, TN to the Reverend and Mrs. Elmer Thomas. She showed an early interest in music as she accompanied her parents to the churches they served, and began piano lessons at age 4. By age 14, she was playing professionally as a pianist and organist in Statesville, NC. She received further training at Meredith College, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Catawba College, and Berklee College of Music in Boston. She was known for her perfect pitch and her ability to play thousands of jazz, standard, classical and pop tunes from memory in any key. Alice was a renowned musician in the Lowcountry. She was the pianist for many years at the Jasmine Porch on Kiawah and at the Lobby Lounge at the then Omni Hotel in downtown Charleston. She was also in demand for private functions as a solo artist and in collaboration with other musicians. Over the course of her career she played for princes, politicians and playwrights, having entertained the likes of Prince Charles, the Kuwaiti royal family, Bill Clinton and Tennessee Williams. Alice used her musical talent and connections to enrich her community. She was an early supporter and volunteer for Spoleto Festival USA, and an organizer and performer for Piccolo Spoleto. She helped to procure start-up and sustaining funds for Pet Helpers by organizing and performing in annual jazz concert benefits. Alice served as organist and choir director for Holy Spirit Catholic Church, James Island Presbyterian Church and Martin Luther Lutheran Church. She taught music at Sea Island Academy. She served as an accompanist for music students at the College of Charleston and for the Charleston Children's Chorus. She was a beloved piano teacher to dozens of students, some of whom have gone on to pursue music professionally. Additionally, she was an accomplished photographer and poet. Alice is survived by her mother, Margaret Jones Thomas, of Hickory, NC; her daughter, Elizabeth Scheld Glynn (Rob), of Hickory, NC; and her grandchildren, Nathaniel Glynn of Washington, DC, Turner Glynn of Baltimore, MD; and Mati Glynn, of Hickory. Services will be private. Memorials may be made to Pet Helpers of Charleston (www.pethelpers.org), the International Primate Protection League (www.ippl.org), or The Western Piedmont Symphony (www.wpsymphony.org). Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston