Born: May 22, 1928, Holdenville, OK Died: September 11, 2019, Dallas, TX
An outpouring of sentiments flowed from around the nation, as news broke last week that Oklahoma-born T. Boone Pickens, Jr. died at age 91 on Sept. 11. The descriptions of his personality varied, but most of the accolades had one thing in common. He was admired for his uniqueness.
“T. Boone Pickens, a legendary Oklahoman, embodied the American dream and what can be accomplished through hard work and dedication. “Although he was known as an incredibly successful, self- made businessman and entrepreneur, one of the most impressive things I witnessed in my years of knowing him was his profound sense of generosity.
“Boone’s seemingly limitless charity over the years to different philanthropic endeavors will have a lasting impact on our state and serve as an inspiration to future generations. “While we mourn his passing, let us always remember his gregarious personality, intellect and indelible impressions he left on Oklahoma,” wrote Oklahoma Attorney General Mike Hunter.
Oklahoma State University football coach Mike Gundy poster on Twitter: “Mr. Pickens is a big part of our success and we’re all thankful for the lasting impact he’s had on Oklahoma State. It would have been difficult for us to climb as high as we have without him. He’ll be missed, but his legacy here will live on for a long time to come.”
Reports show that the OSU football team will wear a hel- met decal for the 2019 season to honor Mr. Pickens. Tulsa World sports columnist Bill Haisten Tweeted: “Two streaks ended this week: Pickens’ 46-year run at the Cowboy Pro-Am golf event and a 76-year run of hunting on the first day of dove season.”
The Associated Press described Mr. Pickens as “a brash and quotable oil tycoon who grew even wealthier through corporate takeover attempts.” Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt wrote in a statement: “Oklahoma has lost a legend with the passing of Mr. T. Boone Pickens. T. Boone Pickens’ love and pride for Oklahoma overflowed through his contribution to job creation and economic growth and his generous philanthropy to Oklahoma’s finest institutions.
“I considered him a friend and mentor, and his strong legacy will long be remembered and celebrated by Oklahomans.” Interestingly enough, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott considered Mr. Pickens a Texan: “Although born in Oklahoma, Texas has always considered T. Boone Pickens to be one of our own. He was a passionate man who always stood by his principles on his path to success.
“T. Boone Pickens’ commitment to establishing American energy independence will have a lasting impact on the state of Texas, and the United States of America. “Throughout his life and career, he generously gave to charitable causes to advance education, medical research, and humanitarian needs,” Abbott wrote. Oklahoma State University issued a public invitation for a memorial at Gallagher-Iba Area on Wednesday, Sept. 25. “Celebrate and remember the man and the legend Boone Pickens, whose gifts to academics and athletics transformed Oklahoma State,” the invitation read.