Trade Regrets: Dorothy W. Zeagler

Dorothy Zeagler

Dorothy W. Zeagler, president of Zeagler Music in Monroe, Louisiana passed away on May 12th at the age of 86.

Born May 1st, 1925 in New Iberia, Louisiana to railway express agent Willie E. Williams and piano teacher Ruby C. Williams, Dorothy never attended the same school two years in a row. In 1931, after performing on experimental television in the RCA building, she was one of three winners in the Paul Whiteman nationwide talent contest.

Because of New York child labor laws she was unable to join his show. For many years Dorothy traveled with her sister to schools performing for those students who could afford the nickel or dime admission. Married to Everett B. Zeagler in 1946, she reared five children, all of whom either became professional musicians or went on to work in the music industry. Dorothy and husband, Everett, purchased a small sheet music business in 1968 which is still in operation today as Zeagler Music in Monroe. To date, Everett still goes to work each day in the store operated by his son, Grayson. Dorothy’s son, Fred, is owner of Zeagler Music in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.