Doyle Happe

Doyle was born in McAllen, Texas, to Art and Ruby Happe in 1939. Friends and family often called him ‘Buddy’.

Buddy attended McAllen High School, where he was an accomplished musician, and, after graduating in 1957, attended Pan Am College and Del Mar College in Corpus Christi. He received his Bachelor of Music Education degree from Sam Houston State University in 1962. He was a member of the Zeta Mu Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.

Buddy married Bonnie Jean Harrell in 1963. They had two sons, Eric Hunter and David Brandon. During their marriage, Buddy was a band director at Newton High School and at Cleveland High School, taking bands to state competitions and winning several first divisions. Buddy and Bonnie were married for eight years.

Doyle (Buddy) moved to Houston and worked in admissions for post-secondary career colleges. He met his 2nd wife, Patsy Davis, at Manpower Business Training Institute. They married in 1979 and enjoyed 46 years together.

In 1987, Doyle and his business partner, Gail Armatys, opened their own school, Center for Advanced Legal Studies, which is now in its 40th year of paralegal training. Doyle’s son, Eric, is now school director after working with his dad for nearly 30 years.

Doyle loved nothing more than working in the college that he co-founded. He cherished working alongside his staff, faculty, and advisory committees. He loved conversations with students and reminiscing with alumni. His impact on paralegal education and training is immeasurable.

Doyle was an avid golfer and played countless rounds with his son and good friends Ralph, Randy, and others.

Doyle is predeceased by his parents, Art and Ruby, his sister Gaye, and his son David Brandon.

He is survived by his wife, Patsy, his son, Eric, his first wife, Bonnie, and numerous friends, associates, and family. Everyone who met him loved his smile, voice, charm, and intelligence.

He will be missed.

Remembrances can be made in Doyle’s name to the charity of your choice.