J Pat Hickman Passed Away – President of Happy State Bank and Trust Company J Pat Hickman Dies
In 1990, Hickman led a group of investors to acquire First State Bank in Happy, Texas, a modest institution with just over $10 million in assets and six employees. Under his guidance, the bank underwent a remarkable transformation, rebranding as Happy State Bank in 2004 to reflect its spirited ethos and deep-rooted connection to its origins. By 2022, the bank had expanded to over 60 locations across more than 40 communities in Texas, boasting assets nearing $25 billion.
Hickman’s commitment to excellence extended beyond financial growth. He cultivated a corporate culture that garnered national recognition, with Happy State Bank being named one of the “Best Banks to Work For” in the USA for seven consecutive years, based on employee feedback. The bank also received accolades for its ethical business standards, including the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award, and was celebrated for its financial literacy initiatives, notably the Kids Bank program implemented in over 30 elementary schools.
Beyond his banking endeavors, Hickman was deeply involved in community service. He served on various boards, including the Texas Tech Foundation, the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society, the Cultural Foundation of the Texas Panhandle, and the Amarillo Community Prayer Breakfast. In 2019, Texas Governor Greg Abbott appointed him to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board, recognizing his contributions to the state’s economic growth.
Hickman’s dedication to personal growth was evident when, on May 11, 2022, he graduated from Texas Tech University with a bachelor’s degree, fulfilling a long-held aspiration. citeturn0search5 His journey and leadership philosophy were chronicled in the book “Non-Negotiable: The Story of Happy State Bank & The Power of Accountability,” illustrating his unwavering commitment to his beliefs and mission.
In 2022, under Hickman’s leadership, Happy State Bank merged with Home BancShares, Inc., with Hickman joining their Board of Directors. John W. Allison, Chairman of Home BancShares, lauded Hickman for founding an “excellent, quality community bank,” highlighting his extensive experience and esteemed reputation in the banking community.
Hickman’s legacy is characterized by visionary leadership, a profound commitment to community, and an unwavering dedication to ethical banking practices. His life’s work not only elevated Happy State Bank to new heights but also set a benchmark for community banking, emphasizing the importance of integrity, culture, and service.
As we reflect on J. Pat Hickman’s life, we honor a man whose vision and values have left an enduring impact on Texas banking and the countless lives he touched through his work and philanthropy.
