Howard Pickle

Howard Pickle, 83, of West Columbia, passed away September 18, 2015 surrounded by his family. He was born in Athens, Texas on May 9, 1932 to Floyd and Annie Brown Pickle. Howard was the youngest of 11 children, all who preceded him in death. He was raised on a farm and held many odd jobs throughout his youth.

He was a graduate of Athens High School where he played both basketball and football. Following high school he graduated from Henderson County Junior College, then received both a Bachelor's and Master's degree from Sam Houston State University where he worked and lived on the college farm. He received another Master's Degree from University of Texas and completed all the requirements for his doctorate except the dissertation.

He served in the Army National Guard for 12 years, having joined while a teenager and presenting himself as older so he could join.

His first teaching job as an Agriculture Teacher was in Needville, Texas where he started the first Youth Fair in 1951. He was then with Longview ISD as Director of Vocational Education.

He served as Director of the Texas Association of Elementary Principals and Supervisors, working closely with the Texas Legislature on educational issues.

In Brazosport ISD he worked as Assistant Superintendent and also as Deputy Superintendent.

In Columbia-Brazoria ISD he was an Ag Teacher and instrumental in guiding one FFA student to achieve the American Farmer award....a first for the district. In CBISD he also held the position of Fifth Grade Teacher, West Columbia Junior High Principal, and Superintendent of Schools, retiring in 1989.

Howard believed in community service, as evidenced by his serving as President of the Brazoria County Youth Homes, Director of the West Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Secretary and President of West Columbia Rotary Club, and a member of the West Columbia Lions Club. He completed the Brazoria County Master Gardener training and assisted with landscaping projects on several Habitat for Humanity homes. He held the position of President of the Board of Directors of Central Emergency Medical Service (CEMS) and was active in fundraising efforts and building programs, guiding in the development of the Emergency Services District. He served as Alderman on the West Columbia City Council for several terms and was proud to live in such a wonderful little city.

He was active in the Brazoria County Republican Party, supporting fundraising efforts, candidates and attending events. He was a delegate to the Texas Republican State Convention several years. He also was an associate member of the Angleton Republican Women's Club, attending most meetings and functions.

Howard was an active member of Columbia United Methodist Church and served for many years as a member of the Monday Morning Methodists group, sending cards and notes. He also delivered lunches to children in need during the summer Feed My Lambs program. His faith was enriched by attending the Walk to Emmaus, Walk #104, sitting at the Table of the Great High Priest. This experience was life changing for him. Following his walk, he began teaching an adult Sunday School class, taking Bible Studies (teaching one year-long study), and participating in Lenten Studies. It was said he was always ready to teach the lesson, having spent many hours in preparation.

As an educator and administrator, he had great respect for teachers. He believed the key to educating students was always in the hands of the teacher. Local control was of utmost importance to him and he frequently questioned decisions handed down to districts from the state and federal levels. It is in the classroom that students get an education, not in paper work and certainly not in mandates.

He enjoyed bird hunting, training his dogs, and the fellowship with friends on the hunting trips. Opening weekend of bird season was anticipated and enjoyed.

He was a man of great integrity, a kind and gracious gentleman who was a role model and mentor to many. He also enjoyed a good discussion...especially about politics. His knowledge of history, government, education and leadership was endless.

Howard is survived by his wife of 36 years, Mary Kathryn; daughters Kathy (Dave) Schock of Katy, Texas; Kathy Frank of West Columbia; Laurie (Bryan) Wagner of Houston; and Allison (Todd) Tobin of Spring. He loved his children and was ever grateful for the six grandchildren: Kaitlin, Kelley, and Kacie Schock; Zoe and Piper Tobin; and Eric Wagner. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Visitation is Monday, September 21 from 5:00-7:00 PM at Baker Funeral Home in West Columbia. A joyful celebration of life will be held Tuesday, September 22 at 11:00 AM at Columbia United Methodist Church with Dr. Mike Deaton officiating , followed by interment at Columbia Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Dr. Michael Stevens, Dr. Roy Ledbetter, John Damon, James Farmer, Carl Coffman & Sue Salter. Honorary pallbearers are the Monday Morning Methodists and the Angleton Republican Women.

Donations are graciously accepted for Columbia United Methodist Church, 315 South 16th Street, West Columbia, Texas 77486 or Central Emergency Medical Service (CEMS), 400 North 13th Street, West Columbia, Texas 77486.

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