Mr. Bert H. Askson

As a very young child, he lived with his Aunt and Uncle, the late Emiley and Tom Bailey in Butler, Texas where he began his education at Butler Elementary School. Bert relocated to Houston to live with his parents and he attended Anderson Elementary School. During this time, he became interested and started playing football at Lockett Junior High School where he was coached by the late James Green and Oliver Brown.

His football career officially started when he attended Kashmere Gardens High School, where he was coached in football by Billie Matthews and played defensive end and slot back. Bert also ran track for Coach Thomas Hendricks and graduated from Kashmere Gardens High School in 1964.

After graduation, Bert attended Lee College in Baytown, Texas majoring in Landscaping and later enrolled at Texas Southern University majoring in Physical Education with a minor in History. He made the TSU football team as a walk-on player under head coach Clifford Paul.

In 1970, Bert was drafted in the 14th round by the Pittsburg Steelers headed up by NFL Hall of Fame coach Chuck Knoll. Bert was the first player in Kashmere history to enter the National Football League. He would later play for the New Orleans Saints before moving on to the Green Bay Packers and there he was coached by NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Bart Starr.

During the off seasons, he served in the U S Army Reserves and received an Honorable Medical Discharge. Bert was honored and proud of his service to our great nation. He retired from the NFL after the 1977 season and became employed by the Port of Houston ILA Local 24 until retirement.

Bert would tell the story of his Aunt giving him money for church every Sunday. He would hold it tight in his hand and nod like he understood. Then, he would keep a portion back and buy candy after church. He thought he was being slick but, he later understood the importance of tithing and giving in the lessons that were taught and laughed at his own foolishness.

He attended church from the time he was young and united with St. Stephens in Houston, TX and later Central Garden Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor Gregory L. Cheeks where he served as a faithful member, clapping to the music and praising God and when needed served as an unofficial usher, membership recruiter and any capacity asked of him.

Bert was preceded in death by his parents, Ava and E.C. Driver; and his Aunt Emiley and Uncle Tom Bailey. He is survived by his longtime, loving, and devoted friend, Patsy Edwards of Missouri City, Texas; his loving daughter, Lisa Caldwell of San Antonio, Texas; his granddaughter, Lindsey Lauren-Allyse Caldwell of Arlington, Texas; his Godbrother, Boyd Bailey (Linda) of Dallas, Texas; and many loving relatives, neighbors, friends, and church members.

Bert’s earthly journey ended Friday, July 24, 2026. He was grateful that God allowed him to share his experience and knowledge as a member of the athletic profession with other young athletes whose desire was to pursue careers in professional football.