George Leslie Biffle

On December 4, 2023, Heaven gained another singer. George Leslie Biffle spent the last 82 years proving that, "Growing old isn't for sissies," by TRULY living.

Memorial services will be at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Polk Street Methodist Church in Amarillo with Rev. Lesly Broadbent officiating.

George was born to Harold and Marguerite Biffle on September 3, 1941, in Lubbock, Texas. His parents blessed him with a childhood that included love, God, hard work, travel, the great outdoors, two brothers, John and Bill Biffle, and a profusion of cousins. Thanks to his parents, George recognized the importance of education, a well-turned phrase, and good table manners. He also refined the art of a fish story and may or may not have been a pilot. Flying occurred at some point, but the details are vague, and the issue of a license uncertain.

George's love of traveling and education was evident in his life choices. Upon graduation, he followed a circuitous route teaching, directing, and singing through Amarillo and Abilene, with a quick pit stop in Mesa, Arizona, to earn a doctorate. Then, he was back to directing and singing in Livingston, Alabama, before finally settling in Canyon, Texas. Along the way, he shared his love of music and commitment to excellence with countless choral students at Austin Jr. High, Amarillo High School, Amarillo College, McMurry University, the University of Western Alabama, and West Texas A&M University, and fellow choral directors within TMEA; as well as church musicians from places such as Westminster Presbyterian Church, Canyon First Methodist Church, and Polk Street Methodist.

While Dr. Biffle may not have been able to "understand the soprano mind" or been able to clarify how to "shut up and sing" his students never wondered what he thought about them. He saw potential and value in his students, friends, and family. Many recognized the love behind each "Bifflism" or honest critique and became better versions of themselves.

Despite family constraints, time, or occasional financial obligations, George bravely pursued his love of hunting, fishing, skiing, traveling, and golfing. Yearly golfing trips with his brothers, John and Bill, kept the family close and slightly competitive. While the term golfing/fishing/hunting widow may have been tossed around off and on through the years, we recognize that his hobbies became another opportunity to teach and encourage others. He built lifelong friendships and memories in hunting blinds and on golf course greens. Equally important was fried quail at Christmas, which couldn't have happened otherwise.

Truthfully, George's greatest joy was his family. He and his wife, Nancy Davis Biffle, created an unusual situation–a blended family that successfully moved from cautious annoyance to absolute adoration for each other. He leaves behind not only his loving wife but also his five children, Leslie Biffle and wife, Kirsten, Aimee Whitfill and Scott Baylor, Robin Allen and husband, Lance, Davis Brown, and Regina Watson and husband, Steven, and thirteen grandchildren.

His mark upon the world is indelible. His legacy is more than music–it is who we are after being touched by his love, wisdom, and humor. We will miss you, but rejoice that you can forever say, "I'm still happy!"

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Polk Street Methodist Church Music Ministries, 1401 S. Polk St., Amarillo, Texas 79101, or a charity of your choice.