Birthplace: Fort Sill, Oklahoma Resided In: Austin, TX It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Hugh Ryan “Trey” LeSure, III on August 19, 2025. While many knew him as Trey, he was lovingly called Professor by his mother, Santa, for his sharp intellect, love of learning, and natural gift for teaching. His unexpected departure has left a void that words cannot fill.
Hugh Ryan “Trey” LeSure, III was born May 10, 1986, in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, to Hugh LeSure, Jr. (deceased) and Santa Maria LeSure. From an early age, Trey showed a gift for music and a deep curiosity about the world around him. Hugh began playing the cello in the fifth grade under the guidance of Karla Phillips at Ridgeway Elementary School and continued studying with her throughout middle and high school. He further advanced his musicianship through private study with Peter Spurbeck, former Professor at the University of Memphis and Principal Cello Emeritus of the Memphis Symphony. His passion for the cello inspired him to pursue both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Cello Performance at The Julliard School in New York City, where he built lifelong friendships and earned a reputation as a passionate, disciplined, and gifted artist. In addition to performance, Hugh studied conducting under Dr. Ronald Vernon, conductor of the Germantown Symphony and Director of Orchestral Activities at the University of Memphis.
Trey — the Professor — had qualities he carried throughout his life to guide and inspire those around him. He encouraged others to see the world through a broader, more thoughtful lens and was always eager to help others grow. Trey was not only an accomplished musician, but also an author and businessman. He wrote Timely Types: The Psychology of Personality: From Jung to Myers and Briggs, reflecting his fascination with human behavior and the importance of understanding one another. Beyond music and writing, Trey excelled as a communicator and leader. He worked in management roles and later joined the U.S. Census Bureau, where he loved serving. He believed deeply in the mission of the Census — ensuring that every person was counted, every community represented, and every voice heard. He was especially proud of his ability to train, mentor, and encourage others in their professional journeys.
Known for his sharp mind, quick wit, and kind heart, Trey inspired those around him. Whether through a piece of music, a thoughtful conversation, or simply his presence, he had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and loved. He enjoyed writing, teaching, and using his gifts of analysis and communication to bring clarity and understanding to others. He was also an excellent cook, loved a good book, and delighted in deep conversations with his brothers, friends, and anyone who would listen. A spirited debater, he stood ready to defend his position on any topic with passion and reason.
Trey is survived by his loving mother, Santa Maria LeSure (Austin, TX), and his brothers, Shawn LeSure and Brian LeSure (Austin, TX). He will be missed by his grandmothers, Virginia LeSure (Aurora, IL) and Adline Moody (Centerville, MS), and his special aunts, Frances Jefferson (Centerville, MS) and Magnolia Oliver (Aurora, IL). Trey was cherished by Marilyn Bostick (Austin, TX) and Sherri King-Moses (Memphis, TN), who held a special place in his life, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends who were like family.
Though his time on earth was too short, Trey’s impact will live on in the music he played, the words he wrote, and the lives he touched. He will always and in all ways be deeply loved and missed.
Rest in peace and grace.