Howard Pollard

Howard was born on December 21, 1937, to William and Elsie Mamye (Holt) Pollard in Loma Linda, CA. He graduated from Three Way High School and Texas Tech University with a Master’s degree and served in the United States Army. Howard married the love of his life, Wilma Jean Copeland, on November 28, 1958, in Lingo, NM. Together they shared the joy of bringing up two boys in the country while maintaining a large garden, raising 4-H show livestock, and continual home improvement projects. Howard’s first job in education came in 1961 as a vocational agriculture instructor at Tulia High School, and his hard work and persistence yielded him the position of Superintendent of Tulia ISD in 1973. Denver City, Texas, was his next career stop where he retired from public service as the Superintendent in 1996. With a longtime friend and associate, Howard then began a new business providing insurance policy service to regional school districts. Howard’s leadership style was gentle and encouraging; he had a deep compassion for each student and each educator and was very good at communicating his desire for an individual’s personal development. He paid extra attention to those that were struggling and not only reassured them, but he could inspire them. Howard served as President of the Rotary Club, Chairman of the Methodist Administrative Board, Sunday school teacher, little league coach, member of the Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Board. He also served regionally as chairman on various advisory committees for the Region XVI Educational Service Center. For many years Howard and Wilma’s home was perpetually open to family and friends and especially grandchildren. The Pollards’ kitchen table is remembered best for the many wonderful meals that were served, but also remembered for the many seeds of wisdom shared to family, visitors, and again especially their grandchildren. Howard was at his best when making time to help others, whether it was writing a letter of reference, or lending a hand repairing farm implements, Howard knew how to be a great neighbor and a good friend. He was preceded in death by his parents. Howard is survived by his wife, Wilma Jean Pollard; two sons, Bryan Pollard of Lubbock, and Mark (Rachel) Pollard of San Antonio; six grandchildren, Desiree Pollard, William Pollard, Calli Pollard, Shaley Pollard, Baley Pollard, and Alyssa Pollard; two sisters, Virginia Williams of Lubbock, and Kathy (Joe) Wallace of Phoenix, AZ; two brothers, Michael (Elaine) Pollard of Sachse, and Terry Pollard of Lubbock; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Lynn Howard Pollard passed away Monday, June 13, 2016.