Wayne Bliss Gard left with a song in his heart and a legacy of music to the students he directed and taught for more than 60 years.

After learning piano from his mother and eldest sister as a 6-year-old, Gard began teaching piano and voice in high school – charging $2 per lesson – and didn’t stop until he was about 83 years old.

Gard died May 2 after a series of heart attacks. He was 87.

Music was central throughout Gard’s life. He was the director of the Long Beach City College choral program and chairman of the music department from 1960 to 1978, and owner of Gard’s Music in Glendora for 29 years.

On Wednesday, his family, friends and former students attended a funeral Mass for the beloved teacher. Scores of his former students showed up and sang with the church’s choir as a final tribute to Gard.

“They’re all coming back to sing for my dad,” said Gard’s son, Chuck.