Obituary of Donald "Don" Ray Hickling

Donald “Don” Ray Hickling, 80, passed away Sunday, August 20, 2023. He is preceded in death by his parent’s Virgil Mallery and Virginia Chosed. Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife, of 48 years, Mary Hickling; son David Brewton and wife, Paula; daughter Deidre Vartabedian and husband, Bryan; brother Bill Mallery and wife, Cathy; sisters Sue Scherz, Pam Olis and husband, Joe; grandchildren Nicholas Vartabedian, Kylie Brewton, Tyler Brewton, Laura Vartabedian, and a host of many other family and friends.

Don was strong in his faith, loved the Lord, and was an active member of his Episcopal Church. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was also a proud graduate of the University of Texas, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Don was a wonderful provider for his family. He had a successful career with Texaco, Bently Nevada, and HL&P. Don was an avid reader and had a thirst for knowledge. Following his electrical engineering career, he became a math teacher with PISD as well as a Sunday School teacher.

Don enjoyed sports and especially loved supporting the University of Texas as well as the hometown Houston Astros. Don loved his family dearly and cherished his friends. His grandchildren affectionately knew him as their “Paw Paw”. He had three lifelong friends, Jack Clagett, George Arnold, and Andy Bailey, that were more like brothers throughout his life. Don was an accomplished musician playing the trombone. He played in the Austin high school band, where he was also the drum major, and later in the Navy Band on the ship he served on. Over the years, Don also played in several community bands. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service for Don will be held on Saturday, September 16^th, at 11:00 am, at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 West Broadway, Pearland, Texas.