Roll Call Tribute

Michael Ray Hedges
April 10, 1954 - October 3, 2022

Our dearly loved Michael Ray Hedges, an esteemed lawyer and trusted advisor to so many, passed unexpectedly on October 3rd, 2022 at the age of 68 in Austin, TX. Mike was born in Amherst, TX on April 10th, 1954 to Buddy and Ann Hedges. He spent his childhood days growing up in a small 3-bedroom house on a cotton farm between Springlake and Olton, Texas. He was a clever, mischievous boy with a mind that was always active.

Mike graduated from Texas A&M University, summa cum laude, in 1976 and went on to Baylor School of Law, graduating in the top 20% of his class in 1979. He was a very successful trial lawyer for Goode, Casseb, Jones, Riklin, Choate, & Watson. Mike tried dozens of jury trials, some lasting weeks. He concentrated on civil litigation, especially land use and title disputes. He represented the City of San Antonio in lawsuits leading to the resolution of boundary disputes along the San Antonio River Walk, with historical facts dating back to 1852. He was also the lead trial attorney for the City in a jury trial in federal court over the validity of the City’s sign ordinances along McAllister Freeway (the “Ugly Signs” case). Mike had highest possible peer review rating for both Legal Ability and Ethical Standards, and was an Associate Member, American Board of Trial Advocates, a national organization of invitation-only, peer-reviewed trial lawyers. He was also a Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, (1/3 of 1% of all attorneys admitted to practice in Texas are elected each year). Mike was a loyal, “take-charge” lawyer, a tireless and fierce advocate for his clients over the course of 43 years. He was a loyal and resourceful leaning post for other lawyers in his firm.

On October 5th, 1991, Mike married his “Sweetie” and the love of his life, Patricia Mason. The two shared a passion for traveling, skiing, hiking, sightseeing, and most of all, each other. They were rarely seen apart during their hours away from work. Whether it was morning walks, planning their next adventure, or simply enjoying the presence of one another…the two embodied the poem Mike wrote for his beautiful bride… “one heart, one soul, one life together”. Mike was a devoted husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His generous and kind-heart touched the lives of so many. He selflessly shared his wisdom and comforting words in a way that impacted people’s lives forever. He was a culinary enthusiast and enjoyed planning and preparing the tastiest of meals for his family and friends. He filled the room with laughter using his witty charm, humor, and child-like spirit. He enjoyed spending time with his many nieces and nephews and loved each of them like they were his own. Some of his special talents (perhaps not known by many) include his expertise in 42, perfection in the art of charades, and ability to lead a two-step that would sweep anyone off their feet. He will always be remembered for serving well, loving deeply, and living with a Luckenbach state of mind.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Hedges; his mother, Ann Hedges; his brother, Pat (Annette) Hedges; two sisters, Gay Hedges and Joan Hedges; his nieces and nephews, Jerri Ann (Chris) Moore, Brittany (Justin) Hansen, Stephanie (Danny) Henderson, Casey (Lindsey) Hedges, Jonathan Webb, Tara (Kris) Humphries, Kristen (Steven) McCain; and many great nieces and nephews whom he cherished dearly. He is preceded in death by his father, Buddy Ray Hedges; his sister, Jan Ratliff; and his niece Ashley Hedges. Patty’s family played a huge role in his life also. His mother-in-law, Teresa Mason; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Lynn (Henry) Zimmerle, Kathy (Jim) Beaman, Jeff (Sandie) Mason, Debbie (Al) Uribe, Pam Mason, Robert (Dawn) Mason; nieces and nephews, Paul (Dolly) Mason, Ann Mason, Robert Mason, Wesley (Holly) Mason, Deja (Taylor) Tenberg, Stacy (Nicole) Zimmerle; and numerous great nieces and nephews.

A funeral service is scheduled for 4:00 pm on October 9th at Porter Loring North, 2102 N Loop 1604 E. His nieces and nephews will officiate.

Everyone who knew Mike, knew his passion for Texas A&M and commitment to the Aggie spirit. As chairman of the A&M Scholarship Committee for over twenty years, he helped countless young men and women pursue their hopes and dreams through scholarships towards a higher education.

In lieu of flowers, you can honor Mike by making a memorial donation to the San Antonio A&M Club Foundation Scholarship Endowment online at: tx.ag/MikeHedges or at the San Antonio A&M Club, 6205 West Ave, San Antonio, TX 78213. Please designate gifts "In Memory of Mr. Mike Hedges '76" in the memo line of the check. For any questions or assistance please call Aggie Park at (210) 341-1393.