Dr. Edward A. Driscoll, 93, was received by his Savior on March 20, 2011. He was born in New York City on October 4, 1917. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward M. and Adrienne, and his brother Albert. He is survived by Atha Lee, his loving wife of 67 years, four sons; Edward and wife Suzy, Stephen and wife Kathy, Phillip, and Paul. Survived also by 5 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 3 nephews, 1 niece, 2 sisters-in-law, and remarkably one first cousin, Pierre Delfausse, who is 94. After graduation from Brooklyn Preparatory School at the age of 15, he attended Fordham University then transferred to Texas A&M where he was in the Corps and graduated in 1941 as a Doctor in Veterinary Medicine. He joined the U.S. Army in October 1942 even though the government had expempted him because of his position with the Federal Meat inspection system. He served overseas in the China Burma India theater during WWII achieving the rank of Major and was discharged in March 1946. He also served in the US Army reserve. He married, on April 24, 1943, the love of his life, Atha Lee Green, whom he met while attending Texas A&M. They were married just prior to him being sent overseas. He practiced Veterinary Medicine in Pasadena for 61 years and was loved by his thousands of clients. Many times, even knowing that the client wouldn’t or couldn’t pay for his services, he never refused to aid or treat an animal. In March 2010 he was the subject of an article in the Texas Veterinarian Magazine and was honored in College Station at a ceremony by the Texas Veterinary Medical Association as the oldest practicing veterinarian in Texas. He was also a Paul Harris Fellow as bestowed by the Pasadena Rotary Club.
He received his Salvation on May 4, 1952 during a Billy Graham revival being held at the Houston Coliseum. He was cajoled to attend the service by his mother-in-law and he later remarked that he knew the Lord had brought him to that service when the first remarks by Billy Graham were a story about a man who took his dog to a veterinarian to have the dog’s tail
During his 61 years of practice he had a variety of clients, including Senator John Glenn, who at the time was an astronaut and whose cat Dr. Driscoll saved after it was severely lacerated late one night by an automobile fan (the cat had crawled into the fan area for warmth). Another notable client was Lash LaRue, a film and television cowboy star of the 50’s who came to Driscoll’s home seeking emergency care for his German Shepherd. Houston wrestling promoter Paul Boesch was also a client. Though he rarely spoke about it, he also had a one time “mysterious client” who was in town and had need for emergency services for his dog. Grateful that Dr.Driscoll had saved his dog with emergency surgery, he gave Dr. Driscoll a note with his private number and instructions that if he ever needed someone “taken care of” just give him a call. Dr. Driscoll never saw him again nor did he ever make use of the offer. He never named the mysterious client, which was probably the better part of valor.
Dr. Driscoll treated all manner of animals in his 61 years of practice, including exotic animals like lions, cougars, coyotes, raccoons, monkeys, snakes, turtles, lizards, alligators, eagles, hawks, and many others. For many years, during its operation, he volunteered his services at the Pasadena Zoo. You could safely say that he treated animals from A to Z. When, after 30 years of practice in Pasadena, the local paper did a front page story on Dr. Driscoll and his wife, he was asked his preference, he replied, “I never met an animal I didn’t like.”
A member of “The Greatest Generation”, he grew up during the depression and worked as a young man, contributing to the support of his family. He worked his way through college and started his career in Pasadena on a shoe-string, after moving there in 1949 with a recently purchased Dodge, his wife, 3 children (Edward, Phillip, and Stephen), a golden retriever, a beagle, and $11. He worked briefly with the Federal Meat inspection system, then, in early 1950 he opened Pasadena Veterinary Hospital. He was assisted by his wife in the first years. A short time later he relocated across the street from his original location and included a boarding kennel and “pet bar” which sold pet supplies and pet food, which he formulated himself. He moved to his last location in 1982 and continued his practice on a regular basis until January 2011, when he experienced some health issues which interrupted his ability to be at his office on a regular basis. He was so devoted to his practice that even during the time from January until his death, he would intermittently open his practice if he was able. The family wishes to thank cardiologist Dr. Heinz Hermann and his staff for all their caring and support.
During his practice at his second location, his father-in-law, after retiring from farming, worked for him for many years. The “boys”, including youngest son Paul, assisted while growing up and all of his grandchildren at one time or another worked for “Grandpa”. His wife was a constant assistant in the recent years of his practice. He figuratively got his wish which was to be able to help animals until the day he died. He will be missed by his clients, by his church, by his friends, and so very much by his loving family. He was a very modest man, who was honest, loving, loyal, and one of the “Greatest” in the “Greatest Generation”.
First Baptist Pasadena Church
First Baptist Pasadena Church
Houston National Cemetery
Dr. Edward A. Driscoll, 93, was received by his Savior on March 20, 2011. He was born in New York City on October 4, 1917. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward M. and Adrienne, and his brother Albert. He is survived by Atha Lee, his loving wife of 67 years, four sons; Edward and wife Suzy, Stephen and wife Kathy, Phillip, and Paul. Survived also by 5 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, 3 nephews, 1 niece, 2 sisters-in-law, and remarkably one first cousin, Pierre Delfausse, who is 94. After graduation from Brooklyn Preparatory School at the age of 15, he attended Fordham University then transferred to Texas A&M where he was in the Corps and graduated in 1941 as a Doctor in Veterinary Medicine. He joined the U.S. Army in October 1942 even though the government had expempted him because of his position with the Federal Meat inspection system. He served overseas in the China Burma India theater during WWII achieving the rank of Major and was discharged in March 1946. He also served in the US Army reserve. He married, on April 24, 1943, the love of his life, Atha Lee Green, whom he met while attending Texas A&M. They were married just prior to him being sent overseas. He practiced Veterinary Medicine in Pasadena for 61 years and was loved by his thousands of clients. Many times, even knowing that the client wouldn’t or couldn’t pay for his services, he never refused to aid or treat an animal. In March 2010 he was the subject of an article in the Texas Veterinarian Magazine and was honored in College Station at a ceremony by the Texas Veterinary Medical Association as the oldest practicing veterinarian in Texas. He was also a Paul Harris Fellow as bestowed by the Pasadena Rotary Club.
He received his Salvation on May 4, 1952 during a Billy Graham revival being held at the Houston Coliseum. He was cajoled to attend the service by his mother-in-law and he later remarked that he knew the Lord had brought him to that service when the first remarks by Billy Graham were a story about a man who took his dog to a veterinarian to have the dog’s tail
cut, as he put it, “ As short as you can cut it off. I want absolutely no tail on this dog.” When the doctor asked the client why he wanted it cut off, the client replied, “ When my mother-in-law visits I don’t want my dog to show any sign of welcome by wagging his tail.” That caught Driscoll’s attention and God’s message, through Graham’s sermon, reached his heart and at the invitation he left his seat at the very top of the Coliseum and went to receive his Salvation. From that moment he was a devoted Christian for the rest of his life. The first thing he did every day was read his Bible. He was a founding member of 2 churches in Pasadena and was a long time member at First Baptist Church of Pasadena. Additionally, he generously supported numerous missionaries and evangelists during his life.
During his 61 years of practice he had a variety of clients, including Senator John Glenn, who at the time was an astronaut and whose cat Dr. Driscoll saved after it was severely lacerated late one night by an automobile fan (the cat had crawled into the fan area for warmth). Another notable client was Lash LaRue, a film and television cowboy star of the 50’s who came to Driscoll’s home seeking emergency care for his German Shepherd. Houston wrestling promoter Paul Boesch was also a client. Though he rarely spoke about it, he also had a one time “mysterious client” who was in town and had need for emergency services for his dog. Grateful that Dr.Driscoll had saved his dog with emergency surgery, he gave Dr. Driscoll a note with his private number and instructions that if he ever needed someone “taken care of” just give him a call. Dr. Driscoll never saw him again nor did he ever make use of the offer. He never named the mysterious client, which was probably the better part of valor.
Dr. Driscoll treated all manner of animals in his 61 years of practice, including exotic animals like lions, cougars, coyotes, raccoons, monkeys, snakes, turtles, lizards, alligators, eagles, hawks, and many others. For many years, during its operation, he volunteered his services at the Pasadena Zoo. You could safely say that he treated animals from A to Z. When, after 30 years of practice in Pasadena, the local paper did a front page story on Dr. Driscoll and his wife, he was asked his preference, he replied, “I never met an animal I didn’t like.”
A member of “The Greatest Generation”, he grew up during the depression and worked as a young man, contributing to the support of his family. He worked his way through college and started his career in Pasadena on a shoe-string, after moving there in 1949 with a recently purchased Dodge, his wife, 3 children (Edward, Phillip, and Stephen), a golden retriever, a beagle, and $11. He worked briefly with the Federal Meat inspection system, then, in early 1950 he opened Pasadena Veterinary Hospital. He was assisted by his wife in the first years. A short time later he relocated across the street from his original location and included a boarding kennel and “pet bar” which sold pet supplies and pet food, which he formulated himself. He moved to his last location in 1982 and continued his practice on a regular basis until January 2011, when he experienced some health issues which interrupted his ability to be at his office on a regular basis. He was so devoted to his practice that even during the time from January until his death, he would intermittently open his practice if he was able. The family wishes to thank cardiologist Dr. Heinz Hermann and his staff for all their caring and support.
During his practice at his second location, his father-in-law, after retiring from farming, worked for him for many years. The “boys”, including youngest son Paul, assisted while growing up and all of his grandchildren at one time or another worked for “Grandpa”. His wife was a constant assistant in the recent years of his practice. He figuratively got his wish which was to be able to help animals until the day he died. He will be missed by his clients, by his church, by his friends, and so very much by his loving family. He was a very modest man, who was honest, loving, loyal, and one of the “Greatest” in the “Greatest Generation”.
Dr.Driscoll was always so kind and caring to our pets and would call us if had to keep them over night. I know he will be missed. If I were closer I would be there to pay my respects.
What a blessing Dr D was! My sincere condolences go out to you guys. But I know he's dancing in Heaven with Jesus. And if there are animals in Heaven they are welcoming him too. Dr. D always reminded me of the movie star Marlon Brando but much more handsomer(if that is a word). Not only did I go to school with Phillip and Stephen,Dr. D cared for my donkey, Ajax. Fond memories!
Pasadena has lost an icon but Heaven has gained a saint!
God rest his soul! Blessings,Jennifer Harris Martin Sam Rayburn 66 and Janet Harris (Sam Rayburn 67)
My deepest sympathy to each of you, and your entire family. God bless.
Terry Storey Smith, Rayburn Class of '66
My prayers for Mrs. Driscoll and your whole family. It was a pleasure to read about Dr. Driscoll's wonderful life. He was, indeed, a great man.
You were blessed to have had him as your dad; and we, blessed to have known him. May the peace he knew as a Christian embrace you all.
Dr. Driscoll was an icon in Pasadena. Anyone that owned a pet knew him. My Dad always enjoyed taking our dogs to him...not only to be treated but also for the cameraderie and friendship Dr.D. always shared.
I always felt so welcome in the Driscoll home. May all the family find peace and joy in knowing this wonderful man loved his family, served his country and community and loved his life work. Blessings to all of you.
Terrie Rhinehart Morgan
Atha Lee, Paul and the rest of the family, we are so sorry to hear about Dr. Driscoll, it is such an honor to have known him. He truly was one of God's children. We love all of you and will keep you in our prayers.
Dearest Stephen, Phillip and family, I am so very sorry to hear of your dad's passing but celebrate with you the fine man that he was. What a loving tribute you all have shared with friends and family. Your dad was indeed an icon in Pasadena and I'll always remember my first chihuahua which we got from your family. He must have touched every family at one time. My wish is that God sends you peace and comfort during this time.
Dear Stephen and Phillip, I was so moved by the obituary of your father. I remember so many dogs of ours that he took excellent care of. What an example of a wonderful father. Vic and I will pray for your family during this time of remembrance of his past life and celebration of his new life. Grace and Peace, Mary Bolton
I was touched by the obituary. Thank you for sharing. We took one our pets to Dr. Driscoll, too. I can't remember which one--we have had so many. He was certainly kind and gentle. What a wonderful person to have as husband, father, and grandfather. May God grant you peace in knowing that your loved one will be waiting for you at heaven's doors. Sincerely, Sharon Menn Haines, Rayburn '66.
Driscoll Family:
It was a treasure to us, that for 3 generations we knew Dr. Driscoll. My children grew up thinking he was a miracle worker and even if the gold fish was "sick" - Take it to Dr. Driscoll--
Better yet, there was not an animal he did not like, NOR did we have one that did not LOVE , Dr. "D"--and at times he would remember the pets name before he would the owners, but gees after all , he was all about the animal--
A testament to a persons life are the thoughts that people have of them after they are "gone"--and I see from the other postings, that many are like my family, and when you hear the name and remember the man--YOU SMILE !!!
The Lazarine Johnston Family
Atha Lee and family,
Our prayers are with you at the passing of Ed and during this difficult time. We have such fond memories of our times together at the Coppinger Reunions. What a tremendous blessing to know that Ed is with the Lord. He was a faithful servant and I know you will miss him so much.
Paul, Thank you for sharing this with me. I never had the privilege of knowing your father but he sounds like a wonderful man. I extend you my deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Dear Paul and family,
This tribute was amazing. We went to him with many of our cats and dogs and the friendship. God Bless your family. You are in my prayers.
Robena(Robin)Newkerk Hooks Sam Rayburn '76
Dr. Driscoll was our vet for my first real dog, Sam. Sam chased the mailtrucks, so we saw your dad often. On the eve of my wedding, my aunts and cousins were at our house sewing and making last minute adjustments on our gown. Sam decided to eat a neede and thread he somehow reached. It was stuck in his mouth, and even though it was quite late, we called your dad to see what we should do. Your dad replied, "Feed him lots of bread after you remove the needle. And, why did you let him eat a needle? Feed him dogfood, no more needles." He was always available, caring, and had a great sense of humor.
Plus, didn't he let you guys start a band at home? That is really patience in the nth degree.
He is a legend. Bless him and bless your family. He will be missed.
Zona (Hogstrom) Burk
I am so sorry to here of Dr. Driscols passing. He took care of my pets, Buster, Dinky and Baby many years ago. He is a friend and a wonderful doctor. Godspeed Doc. May God bless his family and give them strength.
Dr.Driscoll took care of my pets growing up in Pasadena.He was a one of a kind person. He was the Vet in our town. He will be missed.I remember Stephen and Phillip during Elem. school at Richey.God bless this family in their time of sorrow. Our Lord has prepared him a place. He will always be remembered as a fine Doctor who loved animals and took pride in his work. We love you Dr. Driscoll, Godspeed.
I will miss my old friend. His wisdom in the scriptures was one thing about him that I admired. His love for animals and people was outstanding. My daughter, Robyn needed someone to walk her out on the football field at halftime and I was out of town. My whole family said get Dr. Driscoll to walk Robyn to the platform on the gridiron. The memories of Dr. Driscoll will remain with my family for always. The boys of Dr. and Mrs Driscoll are our dearest friends and we feel like they are our family. Mrs. Driscoll is a strong, intelligent lady and is loved by my family... Gaylon, me, Robyn, Crystal, Scarlett and Angelique. The love of God is greater than all our difficulties. He will come through again for us in the home-going of Dr. Edward A. Driscoll.
There are alot of sad pets and pet owners in Pasadena, TX, Dr. Driscoll was the finest vet and person, he took care of our pets he never gave up on them. Dr. Driscoll will be missed. God Bless Him!
Dr. Driscoll was a kind and generous man. I have never heard an unkind word about him. I remember all the doves, bunnies, etc. he kept for Paul's magic acts.
While looking up a friend's obituary I came across the obituary for Dr. Driscoll. It really caught me by surprise. My father, Joe Martin, owned many bird dogs over the years and wouldn't allow another vet to even touch them. They were his pride and joy and Dr. Driscoll was the best vet in the area according to Dad. I spent many hours in his office taking dogs in for check ups and various treatments. I haven't been to that office since the early 70's but I can see it as clearly as a picture. Dr. Driscoll always took time with me to explain what he was doing and, as a teenager, allowed me to "assist" on many occasions. I have thought about him many times over the years. He was a fine man and, according to Dad, the best vet in the whole area. My sincere condolences to the family.
I remember that Dr. Driscoll was always on the move. When I would visit Steve and Philip, which was often during high school, Dr. Driscoll would rarely sit with us in the family room but would be in and out. But when he did say something it was fast and kind-of mumbled, in short burst. But everyone knew what he said, and sometimes it was funny. And now I see that same kind of subtle humorous wit in all his sons. And I really like that! I think it is rare today. But the one thing I really remember most is that I always felt that Dr. Driscoll knew everything that was going on in and around the house and generally thought it was just ordinary good family stuff. I knew other quite fathers who were not so nice to their kids or their friends. Obviously, Dr. Driscoll and Momma Driscoll complimented each other – one rather quite, the other laughing and cutting-up all the time. I just like to contemplate the power of Christ to raise us all in eternal life to enjoy Him and one another forever. Praise God for Christ and his saints.
Atha Lee,we just heard of Ed's homegoing.We were very sorry to hear about it,but we know that he is rejoicing with his Savior and not suffering anymore.I bet he and Mae are having a good time visiting with each other again.Mae loved you and Ed very much and you were such good neighbors.Thank you for being so kind to her.Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
We very much appreciate all of the wonderful care Dr. Driscoll gave our pets. I learned so much from him in caring for my animals. A wonderful man. Our deepest sympathy to all of his family. I know you will miss him greatly.
Rick and Sharon Cunningham
My heart is broken and yet my spirit lifted because I know, of all people in this world, I will see my Grampa again in His Heavenly Kingdom. When I think of my Grampa, first I think of him sitting in his chair with his worn Bible in his lap, studying God's Word. He NEVER missed a day of quiet time with the Lord before he got really ill. He was a Godly man and conducted himself with dignity and compassion fitting of a Christian lifestyle. I admired him so growing up that when it came to choosing a university, there was NO other option than to go to Texas A&M to follow in his Aggie footsteps, which I did and I am so thankful that he and I got to share that special connection. Thank you Grampa for leading a life that quietly reflected Christ - Serving your Lord and serving others. I love you and can't wait to be with you again!
The Driscoll family has meant much to me over the years. Doc and Mrs. Driscoll were like another set of parents to me when Paul and I were in junior high and high school. They were always supportive (or maybe just tolerant) of our endeavors. They even let us turn their carport into a theater one summer. When I first became interested in veterinary medicine, Doc hired me to help at Pasadena Veterinary Hospital. It was the first step of the journey into my chosen career. I have worked in animal hospitals in one capacity or another ever since. I feel honored to have considered Doc Driscoll to be an employer, mentor, and colleague. His love for his patients and concern for his clients was beyond compare. While I mourn his passing, I can feel only gratitude for the influence he has had on my life. Watching him has made me a better veterinarian, a better husband, and a better father than I would have been otherwise. Last year, I attended a ceremony at Texas A&M that recognized Doctor Driscoll as the oldest veterinarian in Texas who was still practicing. Although he was not able to attend that event, I was proud to be with his family on that day to celebrate the commitment he had made to veterinary medicine and pet owners in Pasadena, Texas. Goodbye, Doc, and Godspeed.
Words cannot express how kind, knowing and caring Dr. Driscoll was to us and our pets. We have had so many through the years and even in Dr. Driscoll's later years, we have trusted our pets with his loving care. He was wonderful with animals, but more important he was a kind human being. His knowledge was unbelievable. I and my entire family will miss him so much but will remember him always with a smile. He is probably already attending to the animals in heaven.
Paul, Thank you for allowing us to share with you in your time of loss. I enjoyed reading about your father, he must have been a wonderful man. I will pray for you and your family in the days ahead; and know that it will be a sweet time of rememberance of a beloved man. Praise be to God that our hope is in Him. A hope that is certain. May God's peace that surpasses all our understanding be with you now and always.
Dr. Driscoll was a great man and he will be missed.Our thoughts and prayers our with you always.
All of my life Pasadena had only one veterinarian - Doc Driscoll! He cared for all my childhood pets and eventually my daughters. And he and Mrs. Driscoll worked so well together! They were also gracious enough to receive calls at home, dispensing instructions and sympathy - not only for the patient, but the patient's owners. The Driscoll family has been well known and respected for many years, and Doc's contributions to the community is immeasurable. His efforts will be greatly missed by those who knew him.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Driscoll family.
Penny N. Buenger
When we my kids were little they wanted a doggie. We found someone selling little dogs. We rang the doorbell and Mrs. Driscoll invited us in like we were family stopping by for a visit. We went home with a little chihuahua. When we got our first boxer we went to Dr. Driscoll and he helped us. His manner and gentleness always brought a smile to our faces. He had a great sense of humor. Meeting him I just knew he was someone special. Later I found myself working with Steve. I felt a kinship. His parents were so kind to me and my kids. We will always remember your Father and your Mother. My prayers are with the Driscoll family.
My name is Al Schwake and I was a rep for International Securities of Newport Beach, California that specialized in the mutual fund industry. Dr. Driscoll was my client all of the 1960's and early 1970's and a good friend. Please accept my warmest condolences. If Mrs. Driscoll or any one of the family would like to call my number is 713-468-1262 and God Bless
Al Schwake
What wonderful memories we have of the Driscoll family at Memorial Baptist. Dr. Driscoll was so proud of his boys and their marriage was an example for all couples to follow. Our prayers are with you.
The Dricsoll family has meant so much to me over the years, and I will certainly miss Dr. Driscoll. He was very kind and caring to my dogs, and a kind human being. My thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of sorrow.
May God undergird you with His strength and grace and give you peace that surpasses all understanding.
He is now attending the animals in Heaven and will be as well received there as he was here on earth.
Lori Baxter and the Townshend Family
Dr. Driscoll took care of many of our pets. He was kind, caring and devoted to animals. I am sorry for your loss Mrs. Driscoll.
On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank you and your staff for your excellent and caring service.
Thank you for all you did to make our mother's funeral special, dignified, and easy for us.
I just can't express to you enough how much we appreciated the kindness and professionalism my family experienced with you and your staff.
Thank you for treating my beloved mother with honor and respect all throughout the process.
Our family will be forever grateful to the owner and staff at Beresford Funeral Services for the excellent services they provided to our family upon the death of our loved one. Everything went smoothly. The planning was easy with everything needed for the funeral provided on sight at reasonable prices with no pressure to spend more than planned. They were flexible with our personal plans, very kind, and considerate from beginning to end. We would definitely recommend Beresford Funeral Services to anyone in need of funeral services.
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