It is with great sadness and profound respect that we announce the passing of J. Pat Hickman, the esteemed president of Happy State Bank and Trust Company. Hickman, a visionary leader and a pillar of the Texas banking community, has left behind an indelible legacy of growth, integrity, and community service. His contributions to both the banking industry and his local community will be remembered for years to come, as his efforts set a benchmark for excellence, ethical business practices, and philanthropic dedication.
J. Pat Hickman’s journey in banking began in 1990 when he led a group of investors to acquire First State Bank in Happy, Texas, a small, modest institution with assets of just over $10 million and a staff of only six employees. While many saw a small town bank, Hickman saw an opportunity to create something much larger—an institution that would not only thrive financially but would become an integral part of its community, setting a standard for how a bank could operate with integrity and purpose. Under Hickman’s visionary leadership, the bank underwent a remarkable transformation, growing from its humble beginnings into one of the most respected banks in Texas.
In 2004, the bank rebranded as Happy State Bank to reflect its spirited ethos and its deep-rooted connection to the town of Happy, Texas, where it was founded. The rebrand was more than just a name change; it was a statement of intent. It was about creating a bank that was community-focused, dedicated to providing high-quality service while remaining committed to its core values. This approach proved successful, as the bank expanded rapidly, and by 2022, Happy State Bank had grown to more than 60 locations across over 40 communities in Texas. With assets nearing $25 billion, the bank’s growth was a testament to Hickman’s leadership and commitment to his vision.
Hickman’s approach to leadership was defined by a profound commitment to excellence. However, his focus was not only on financial success. He believed that a bank’s true value was measured by its culture and the way it treated its employees. Under his guidance, Happy State Bank was consistently ranked as one of the “Best Banks to Work For” in the United States, a title that it held for seven consecutive years. This recognition was based on employee feedback, reflecting the positive and supportive culture that Hickman cultivated within the organization. He firmly believed that when employees are valued and treated with respect, they, in turn, provide exceptional service to customers. This focus on employee satisfaction and organizational culture helped create a bank that was not only financially successful but also known for its ethical standards and positive workplace environment.
Happy State Bank’s ethical business practices earned it numerous accolades, including the Better Business Bureau’s prestigious Torch Award for ethics in business. The bank’s commitment to integrity and transparency set a high standard within the industry, and it became a model for others to follow. One of the bank’s most notable initiatives was its dedication to financial literacy. Hickman and his team implemented the Kids Bank program, which was introduced in over 30 elementary schools across the region. The program helped teach young students the importance of financial responsibility and budgeting, setting the foundation for lifelong financial education.
Beyond his work in banking, J. Pat Hickman was deeply committed to serving his community. His involvement in various civic and charitable organizations was a reflection of his belief in the importance of giving back. He served on several boards, including the Texas Tech Foundation, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society, the Cultural Foundation of the Texas Panhandle, and the Amarillo Community Prayer Breakfast. These contributions to the community were just as important to Hickman as his professional achievements, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that he was making a positive impact in the lives of others.
In 2019, Texas Governor Greg Abbott recognized Hickman’s contributions to the state’s economic growth by appointing him to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board. This honor was a testament to his influence not only within the banking community but also in the broader economic landscape of Texas. Hickman’s ability to foster relationships, promote growth, and contribute to the state’s development was widely recognized, and his leadership continued to be a guiding force for both the financial sector and the community at large.
Hickman’s commitment to personal growth was evident throughout his life. In May 2022, at the age of 69, he graduated from Texas Tech University with a bachelor’s degree, fulfilling a long-held aspiration. This achievement was a reflection of Hickman’s philosophy that learning should be a lifelong pursuit and that there is always room for growth, no matter one’s age or position. His journey and leadership philosophy were chronicled in the book Non-Negotiable: The Story of Happy State Bank & The Power of Accountability, which highlighted his steadfast commitment to his principles and his belief in the importance of accountability in leadership.
In 2022, a significant milestone in Hickman’s career came with the merger of Happy State Bank with Home BancShares, Inc. As part of the merger, Hickman joined the Home BancShares Board of Directors, bringing his extensive experience and leadership to a new organization. John W. Allison, Chairman of Home BancShares, praised Hickman for founding an “excellent, quality community bank,” emphasizing his reputation as a seasoned and respected leader in the banking community. The merger was a testament to Hickman’s vision for the future of Happy State Bank and his commitment to ensuring that the bank continued to thrive even as it joined forces with another institution.
Hickman’s legacy is characterized by visionary leadership, an unwavering commitment to community, and a strong dedication to ethical business practices. His life’s work elevated Happy State Bank to new heights, but perhaps more importantly, it set a standard for what community banking should be. Hickman’s leadership style emphasized the importance of culture, integrity, and service, and his work continues to inspire those who were fortunate enough to work with him or learn from his example.
As we reflect on J. Pat Hickman’s life and legacy, it is clear that his contributions have left an enduring impact on Texas banking and the countless lives he touched through his work and philanthropy. Hickman’s life was a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to the values that matter most. His visionary leadership, passion for service, and ethical approach to business have set a high standard for others to follow.
The loss of J. Pat Hickman is felt deeply by his family, friends, colleagues, and the communities he served. His impact on the banking industry and beyond will be felt for generations to come, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who seek to make a difference through their work, their values, and their service to others. While his passing leaves a void, the lessons he taught and the standards he set will remain a guiding light for all who knew him.
Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who were touched by his leadership and generosity. J. Pat Hickman will be remembered not just as a successful businessman, but as a man of integrity, a mentor, and a true community leader whose influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.
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