A different kind of athlete, calls the football field at Prairie View A&M University home. An athlete with a high step, and a bold drum line Varian Howard knows all too well. Howard says he would not have developed a love, for PVAMU band at an early age, if it hadn't have been for one man.

"He was definitely a father and friend. Some of his teachings I hold dear to me to this day," says former PVAMU band member, Varian Howard.

Howard, along with hundreds of others returned to Prairie View A&M University to remember band director, George Edwards. The man affectionately known as "Prof Edwards" died May 28th after suffering injuries in a traffic accident. Friday, memories brought tears and smiles to the faces of many, as memories of discipline fill the hearts of others.

"He taught us how to walk, talk, and act like royalty, cause he accepted nothing less" says Howard.

It's the type of expectation, Howard saw first hand in the seventh grade, while attending PVAMU's band practice. He says at that time he not only learned band principles, but meaningful life lessons.

"As far as music, I mean your education, he was a very positive influence on me" says former PVAMU band member, Ernest Biggers. Biggers performed under Edwards direction more than 10 years ago.

Edwards also impacted the lives of those who performed under his leadership for only a short time.

"Our experience with him wasn't that long but just from knowing him this little time, we could tell he was a great person," says freshman PVAMU band member, David Hutson.

Adrienne Rowe has several fond memories of Edwards, who she says took a chance on her, when he appointed her as the first female drum major several years ago. And now, she's using the strength Edwards instilled in her, to empower others.

"Awesome people don't quit they just weather the storm and keep making changes," says Adrienne Rowe.

It's a change many people who love George Edwards now have to live with, but are also comforted in knowing the beat of The Marching Storm's creator will live on.

Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee ordered an American flag to fly over the U-S capitol in Edwards' honor. Afterward it will be presented to his family.