William Clement Chinworth's Obituary
William Clement Chinworth, 88, died peacefully on March 15, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona. He was born in Elkhart, Indiana but split his childhood between Tucson and Warsaw, Indiana.
A proud Tiger, he graduated from Warsaw High School in 1956. William earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from the University of Arizona. A gifted musician, dedicated teacher, and industrious entrepreneur, he devoted his life to sharing and building musical opportunities throughout southeastern Arizona. In 1979, with his wife, Barbara, and friend, Scott Braucher, he founded the Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra, which to this day continues to enrich the cultural life of Tucson.
William proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for more than 20 years, retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Three family dogs, Captain (the best dog ever), Major (the most aloof dog ever) and LTC (the dumbest dog ever) marked his military career with each promotion.
In addition to the Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra, William’s life passions included the University of Arizona “Pride of Arizona” Marching Band, the Sirocco Wind Quintet, the Arizona Symphonic Winds, and the Great Western Rocky Mountain Brass Band. He dedicated many rewarding hours to organizing Warsaw High School class reunions and researching genealogies for the Chinworth, Clark and Cleveland families. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the Durango and Silverton Narrow Guage Railroad and Historic Woodson’s Mill in Lowesville, Virginia. Through all these interests, he built lasting friendships and preserved connections across many generations.
He is survived by his children, William Chinworth (and his partner, Charlene Giacalone), John Chinworth (and his partner Johnnie Peterson), and Elizabeth Chinworth, as well as his brother, Ford Chinworth. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Barbara Chinworth. Along with 10 seconds of exposure in the movie Tombstone, William’s memory will be preserved by his grandchildren, Nichelle and Ian (and his partner Michelle Jimenez), and his great grandchildren, Savanna, Kellen, Jemma, Frances, and Desmond.
In accordance with his wishes, a private graveside memorial was held on March 20, 2026. A celebration of life is tentatively planned for June. Interested parties may contact the family via email at [email protected]
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra in William’s memory.
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