Pat May was born June 26,1927, in Huntsville, Texas into a family of educators. Her parents, Evva and O.R. Lade, were so very proud of her and loved her very much. As the older sister to Don and Mickey, she loved and supported them following her parents’ example. The love she learned from her family grew and was reflected in relationships with co-workers, neighbors, friends, church members, boy scouts and even acquaintances. Pat’s capacity to love others is an inspiration and example to us all.
Pat met the love of her life, her husband Sidney May, in college. Married for 54 years, they enjoyed a shared passion for teaching children. Their careers were intertwined and truly complemented one another. Sid respected her and encouraged her in her leadership opportunities. They enjoyed traveling, movies and sports. They dedicated themselves to their families and truly enriched the lives of us all.
Education was a high priority in her life. She graduated from Waco High School in 1944, then from Sam Houston State University where she received a BFA and teaching certificate in 1949 and a MA in 1950. Later she received a MEd with certification in supervision. Pat taught in Webb, Texas, in the Valley in a three-room schoolhouse where they lived in one of the classrooms. She later taught in Irving ISD and finally, in Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD. Pat retired in June of 1985 with 39 years of experience, 27 of which were spent in HEBISD.
Pat’s awards and honors are immense. She has been honored as one of the Top 100 Administrators in North America, and she has received the University of North Texas Eagle Award. In 1963 she was named HEBISD Curriculum Director followed by her appointment as Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education in 1978. She is a Past President of the Texas Association for Curriculum and Development and the Texas Association of Instructional Supervisors. The Pat May Center, a facility for staff development in the Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, is named in her honor. She received proclamations from the cities of Hurst, Euless, and Bedford, the Tarrant County Commissioner, the Texas Senate and the Texas House of Representatives declaring “Pat May Day” upon her retirement. She was an honorary member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. In 2001 she was named Citizen of the Year of Hurst, Texas.
With her strong pursuit of excellence in curriculum and instruction, Pat was the first to implement staff development for teachers. She coordinated the first elementary curriculum guides; and as the first librarian, she borrowed books weekly from public libraries for use in the classrooms. She was a strong supporter of the Fine Arts program.
Her true legacy is her dedication to children and education in the Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD. As the First Lady of HEBISD, Pat was dearly loved and supported by many wonderful people. Pat touched the lives of so many through her kindness and leadership, setting an example as a strong, compassionate woman for generations to come.
Pat’s family thanks you for all the sweet, loving and generous ways you have contributed to our lives. We are grateful for all her wonderful caregivers and the many prayers of neighbors, friends, and family. We will miss her dearly.
In recognition of Pat May’s devotion to children and young people, donations may be made in her memory to The Sid and Pat May Scholarship Fund.
