Auburn band members mourn loss of their own

Auburn University band members gathered on their practice field Thursday night, leaning into each other with arms crossed against the chill of fall and loss.

They came with candles instead of instruments to remember Sarah Anderson, a freshman killed in a one-vehicle accident Tuesday. In front, Sara Clayton sat in a wheelchair with her family at her back. Clayton, a fellow piccoloist who was with Anderson when the accident occurred, was released from Baptist Medical Center South Thursday.

“Tonight is an opportunity to demonstrate our affection for Sarah,” Associate Director of Bands, Corey Spurlin, said to a crowd arced around a podium and portraits of a girl with a pretty smile. “I want her to know how much we loved her.”

Kappa Kappa Psi member Elizabeth Foster’s voice cracked as spoke of her fellow fraternity member.

“I love you — I miss you,” she said.

Rick Good, director of bands, remembered the piccolo player from Robertsdale touted as a perfect fit for Auburn.

Good said the service fraternity, which is taking donations in Anderson’s memory, is planning to establish a scholarship in her honor.

Stuart Daubenmire, head drum major, called Anderson colorful and said her life was filled with laughter and friends.

“She had a good one,” he said. “It gives me so much peace to say that.”