Alfred Thomas King III

1946 - 2015

Alfred Thomas King III obituary, 1946-2015

FUNERAL HOME

Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home

4525 Bissonnet St

Bellaire, Texas

Alfred King Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 11, 2015.

Alfred T. "Fred" King III, a child of God, was born March 3, 1946 in Houston Texas, and died April 10, 2015 in Houston, Texas, after battling Post-Polio Syndrome and ALS. He now is rejoicing in Heaven.

Fred was a strong, friendly and helpful person, never too busy to do what he could for people in ways ranging from just offering advice to taking action, whether it was for a friend, colleague, or even a stranger.

Fred is survived by his wife, Jo; his son Tom and wife, Anna of Centennial, Colorado; his daughter Sarah Farmer, of Nacogdoches, Texas; and his stepsons, Jeffrey Parker and wife Katherine; Joel Parker and wife Shana, all of Houston; and his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The eldest of seven children, Fred is also survived by sister Mary and husband Dan Posey of Granite Shoals, Texas; brother Terry King of Robstown, Texas; sister Audrey Vandemark of Kerrville, Texas; brother Tyra King of Kerrville, Texas; brother Alan King of Valparaiso, Indiana; sisters-in-law Margaret King of Timpson, Texas; Kay King of Fredericksburg, Texas; Janet King of Valparaiso, Indiana; Emily Croom and husband Robert Shelby of Bellaire, Texas; aunt Hildred Dempsey; uncle Ross and wife Betty Thornton and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred T. King II and Audrey Thornton King; his first wife of 39 years, Judith Croom, and his brother Tim King.

Fred was an active member of Bellaire United Methodist Church; a faithful member of his Sunday school class; the men's Wednesday night Bible study; James 1:27, a men's service group and the Community Bible Study. He loved the Lord Jesus and wanted others to find the strength and comfort he had in Christ.

Fred graduated from Bellaire High School in 1963 with honors. He worked his way through the University of Houston and graduated with a degree in journalism. He was an officer in the Army, serving with armored units in the U.S. and in Korea. An excellent marksman since his youth, he also was a member of the All Army Rifle Team, and taught marksmanship to new recruits.

He loved the outdoors and spent many weekends on his land in Grimes County, where he enjoyed every hunting season for more than 30 years. Family time was very important to him, whether it was big family holiday gatherings, camping or road trips, or helping with handy-man projects.

Fred was a journalist who began his career working for newspapers in Gonzales, Georgetown, and Paris, Texas. He also published a newsletter, Hunting Ranch Business, from 1985 to 1989. He worked at The Houston Post as a copy editor and assistant editor of the editorial page for 18 years. Fred also was a public information officer for the Houston Police Department from 1994 to 2000, and he was the communications coordinator at the Harris County District Clerk's Office from 2000 to 2008. He was a communications specialist and manager at the Harris County Tax Office from 2008 to 2011. He retired as writer/researcher from the Harris County District Clerk's office in 2014.

In 2001, The Houston Press dubbed him The Best Public Information Officer in Houston, describing him as helpful to news media by being a "master translator into understandable terms."

Fred will be missed by his family and a wide circle of friends.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2015, at the Bellaire United Methodist Church, 4417 Bellaire Boulevard, 77401.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Fred's memory may be made to Samaritan's Purse, Prison Fellowship, or the Salvation Army.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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Not sure what to say?

May 8, 2015

To: Bill Murphy, Assistant Director of Communications
Office of Harris County District Clerk

Re: Fred King
April 25, 2015

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to mention a number of professional experiences I shared with Fred and note contributions he made to the office that few attribute to him.

When we took over the office in '96 Charles and I found an organization desperate for leadership and guiding principles. The policies in place at the time - and there were few were poorly written and starkly absent of input from the organization. We were committed to doing it the right way.

While much of the research for the needed policies, procedures and standards was complete by the time we added Fred to our ranks, he was a welcomed addition to an overtaxed staff struggling to do things they had never done before (investigate, confer and write). Having worked directly for Lee P. Brown for several years, I had ample experience in such processes, and Charles and I had a firm understanding of what was needed and how to proceed, but adding Fred was the ingredient that was missing. Though he was a reporter/journalist by trade and a natural fit for the editor of Hearsay, I found myself frequently asking him to wear the hat of a technical writer.

A Strategic Plan with a scope of 3 to 5 years is a road map to the future for most any organization, but it must be revisited each of the included years for evaluation, adjustments and accuracy. It's an arduous process that requires clarity and compliance, when done correctly. Although I produced our first ever plan before Fred's arrival, soon after he joined us I asked him to oversee this process and shepherd it through the subsequent years. He took to it like a duck to water! I'm not so sure Fred loved to write, but he loved to convince and did it best through his writings. What he did love was the investigative nature of gaining facts and input from the rank-and-file employees for the balance and accuracy we insisted on in all of our principles documents.

Gradually over time Fred would oversee the production of most all of the administrative tools (documents) we used to communicate to the organization our values, principles and business plans, including; Strategic Plan, Annual Report, Policy Manual, Mission Statement, Administrative Standards, Electronic Case Management and more too numerous to mention. Essentially, Fred fueled the vehicles we used to bring about change in the organization.

Charles would gush over Fred's assistance. He would call him from the road and discuss an issue requiring a press release. Fred would confer with and question me as an audience for his draft and pen a masterful release, capturing all the pertinent facts and flavors, and have it on Charles' desk before he arrived - rarely did it require editing.

I'm struck by the difficulty of saying goodbye to such a good and honest man a man blessed with impressive skills who would serve up every work product with balance and a dose of compassion. The District Clerk's office is a better place today because of Fred's many contributions, not the least of which was his infectious integrity. Even today it is blessed with his lingering influence. Rick Sander

April 25, 2015

Dianne Logan

I was out of the country when we lost Fred and so sad to get the news of his passing. My husband, Kuyk, regarded Fred as one of his finest hires at The Houston Post. Fred made all his colleagues and friends proud to be a part of his life. His unassailable integrity and endearing warmth and humor will be missed by so many of us. To Jo and family, I know your loss is immense but hope you take comfort in knowing how greatly Fred is missed by so many whose lives he touched. He was such a fine man.

April 24, 2015

jeff share

One thing I would like to add about Fred was that he was a very friendly person who always took a sincere interest in everyone around him because he cared.

April 23, 2015

I'm sorry to be so late in leaving this message. I was out of town during his passing. Fred was a patient man who loved a good news story. He did everything he could to help out young journalists like me shine the light through public records. It was always a pleasure to sit with him for 15 minutes and talk a little. He had great advice on everything from journalism to car repair shops! A great guy who will be greatly missed.

Brian Sasser

April 21, 2015

Ginny Martin

I'm so sorry to hear of Fred's passing. I haven't seen any of you in many, many years, but I remember you all from St Stephen's Episcopal Church. Alan was my age & in my Sunday School class and Mary was my Sunday School teacher one year. She was older (a teenager & thought she was so beautiful & cool). Anyway, I wanted express my condolences upon reading this sad news. In God's love - Ginny Martin

April 21, 2015

It was our privilege to have known Fred and his wonderful family for many years. We feel honored to have called him a close and dear friend.
Fred's keen intellect and deep commitment to the Lord were evident to all. He had such integrity!
We, along with so many others, will miss him greatly.
Jeanette and Frank Stokes

April 20, 2015

Brenda Rather

Fred was a very kind man. I'll always appreciate his encouraging words. Thank you, friend.

April 20, 2015

Laurie Paternoster

Fred was a great mentor and friend when I was a fairly inexperienced reporter at the Post. He always had a word of support and a welcoming smile for me. He leaves quite a legacy.

April 18, 2015

Dorothy Mahon

I worked in marketing at The Post and Fred was always a help. After the paper closed I went into the nonprofit world and would call on Fred to help me secure staff. Fred was the connector of many Post people and a truly caring person.

Dorothy Mahon, Wimberley, TX

April 18, 2015

John Carnahan

Fred was a man for others. He lived the Christian life to which most just give lip service. I will miss him, he made the world a better place.

April 17, 2015

Suzanne Clark Webb

I have many fond memories of fun times with Fred and Judith at Bellaire High School and also at Tallowood. Judith was a bridesmaid at our wedding and Fred caught the garter; they were married the next month. Our children remember playing with Tommy and Sarah. I always respected Fred's journalistic integrity.

April 17, 2015

Pete Brewton

Fred King was the first Houston Post reporter I meet -- some 40 years ago when I walked into the HPD pressroom as a beginning reporter for the Houston Chronicle. He could have cut me to ribbons. Instead he was generous and helpful. He wanted to make sure I got things right.

Fred carried a lot of intellectual and moral authority around with him. They were not heavy burdens.

April 17, 2015

Cindy Gabriel

Fred kept Spokesperson's Anonymous going for years, which served as a networking station for those working in and with media. As downsizing turned the media world upside down, Fred was always sending out olive branches of job openings and resumes on behalf of his peers. He felt their pain and wanted to do what he could to help. He is the definition of a good man.

April 17, 2015

Homer Roderick

A purposeful life well lived and a blessing to many.

April 17, 2015

I worked with Fred many years at the Post. He was as fine a man as anyone could ask for. I'll miss him.

Henry Hunt

April 16, 2015

Jeannie Fontenette

HEAVEN HAS ANOTHER ANGLE!

April 16, 2015

Roger Rider

I knew him since high school. He was a good and kind person by all measures. My condolences to his family.

April 16, 2015

Thora Qaddumi

It has been 20 years since The Houston Post closed but, thanks to Fred, many of us have been able to stay in touch. We appreciate him and all that he has done for us all for so many years. Sincere condolences.

April 16, 2015

John Getter

Fred was a good man and a straight shooter in every sense of both phrases. He lived and worked with honor and was an example of excellence in all he did.

April 16, 2015

Claire Kennedy

Fred hired me for my job at the District Clerk's Office. He was my boss, but also became a great mentor and friend. He was an excellent editor, ethical worker, and set an outstanding example for me to follow for handling politics and the media. We went through a lot of political changes throughout the years, but I knew I could always depend on Fred's faith, integrity, and advice throughout any situation. He was always there to listen, and I knew I could trust and depend on him. He had my back and was willing to go out of his way to help me if I ever needed it. I know that any friend of Fred's could say the same, because that is the type of man that he was. I am sad that we have lost him, but I am glad to know he is no longer in any pain.

Jo, Tom, and Sarah, I am thinking about each of you and praying that you will take comfort in knowing what a positive impact Fred has made. He will be greatly missed.

April 16, 2015

Vicki and Dan Sobecki

Fred always had a smile to share, willing to mentor, or pray with you. Our time working together at the Tax Office was educational and fun. In loving memory of a wonderful person. You will be missed. Our thoughts are with Jo and all of Fred's family. God Bless.

April 16, 2015

Jo, I am so sorry to hear about Fred. I send my love to you.
Martha Upton

April 16, 2015

Fred was one of the really good guys, both as a newsman and as a PIO. He always shot straight and took care of business.

He will be missed.

Rick Hartley
The 100 Club

April 16, 2015

Steve Wick

I am truely sorry to hear of Fred's passing. We became friends at Tallowood and I admired him. The Scottish poet, Thomas Campbell, said "To live in the hearts of those we leave behind is not to die." We will miss you now, Fred but see you in eternity.
Steve Wick and family.

April 15, 2015

David Strauss

I'll always remember Fred in many ways. Two especially. He always had a twinkle in his eye and a little smile that told me he knew something I didn't . . . and he usually did! And, for his love for Jo. Both proved how smart he was. As a faithful man, he is with his Lord and no longer in pain. God Bless

April 15, 2015

Joan Miller

Heartfelt condolences to Jo and all of Fred's family. Fred was a joy to work with at the District Clerk's office. He always had a smile and a kind or funny word for all who crossed his path. A loyal and thoughtful friend, a loving husband and a proud father and grandfather...one of the really good guys to be sorely missed by all who who knew him. Rest in Peace dear friend.

April 15, 2015

Darrell Hancock

Thank you, Fred, for your friendship, your kindness and sweet spirit, your wise counsel, and your Christian witness. And thank you, Jo, for the love and care that lighted his path, even in the most difficult times.

April 15, 2015

Tayyaba Ali

Mr. King was family to us along with the rest of the Kings. We remember when 9/11 happened & he came over quickly to put flags all around our house as he did not want people to stereotype against us mistakenly just based on our appearance. He was loved. We will miss him greatly. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you during this difficult time. May you find peace, comfort and healing. God Bless, The Ali family

April 15, 2015

Sharon Dotson

I am sad to read Fred is gone. I knew him through PR circles and always admired his integrity, his sense of humor and his work--particularly his confident manner representing the Houston Police Department. The last time I communicated with him was a couple of years ago when I forwarded a picture I saw on the Internet of the late Dwight D. Eisenhower that looked just like him. Fred had a good laugh and agreed. "Yep, you're right," he said. "I sure do look like the President."

April 15, 2015

Rhonda Baker

Prayers for peace and comfort going up for Fred's family. I know that he will be missed. I had the pleasure of working with him at the DCO and I remember his beautiful spirit and love for his family! A man of integrity!

April 15, 2015

The very first day I walked into the HPD Press Room nearly forty years ago as an intern I got to work right next to legendary Houston Post Reporter Fred King. Fred was a champion for honesty in government and hated waste and corruption and he was the kind of journalist that sadly is disappearing in Houston. When he called to try to help me expose wrongdoing, I always listened. I was proud to call him a colleague and friend. I am very sad today, but Fred lived a great life doing what he loved to do. God has a great edition to Heaven's newsroom. My family is saying a prayer.
Wayne Dolcefino

April 15, 2015

John Boudreaux

Fred and I joined the Houston Post about the same time, and we worked together on the city desk and the copy desk. I admired Fred for being dependable, accurate, helpful and kind. He was a dedicated journalist who took his job seriously, and he helped guide us about the history of Texas and Houston. On the mean avenues of the city and the newsroom, Fred did not have sharp elbows or a mean heart. That, I found, made him quite different. The world has lost a good man. Thanks, Fred.

April 15, 2015

Raequel Roberts

I always enjoyed catching up with Fred as we rode the 261 into work. He will be missed. God bless.

April 15, 2015

Fred was a good man, a good journalist and a good public servant. I have known him for more than 30 years and he was always willing to help anyone who needed it. A fine gentleman. You will be missed.
Eric Hanson

April 15, 2015

Mary Flood

Fred was a class act. We worked together at The Houston Post and had many dealings while he was at HPD and Harris County. His devotion to helping former Post folks together was wonderful. He was always kind, helpful and sweet. He made a difference. RIP.

April 14, 2015

Chuck Moebius

Fred helped me write an article about my ex wife's & my Craft Mall in Atascocita, we worked at the Houston Post together, & he attended the Memorial Service of my Brother In Law, Jim Bishop 2 years ago. He was always easy to talk with And very laid back, I will miss him, & try to attend this coming Saturday!

April 14, 2015

Jeffrey Share

Everyone who knew or worked with Fred deeply respected his integrity.

April 14, 2015

Jo,
We have lost a good-hearted, God-fearing man whose genuine dedication and commitment to his friends remained steadfast through thick and thin. I believe that there was no favor too intrusive for his schedule. Quite simply, Fred was the type of individual who was THERE FOR YOU! I can say this and I'm sure there are countless others who can say the same thing. My years at the late and lamented Houston Post were enriched by his presence and contributions. He was a GREAT PR man because he knew reporters and what they wanted. His example should be in textbooks. His Christian example should never be forgotten and will forever be present in my memory. My best to you and the entire family.
Tom Kennedy

April 14, 2015

Pam Gillum Johnson

I knew Fred from the Houston Post days. I always liked him. He was very kind, thoughtful, down to earth man with a gentle spirit.
I pray you will find comfort in pleasent memories of Fred and the comfort only our Father in heaven can provide. God Bless and keep you at this time.

April 14, 2015

Rick Sander

Jo;

When I learned of Fred's passing I thought of you and the emotional pain you must be experiencing. Please know that the memory of Fred among those of us who shared time with him is that of a good, God fearing man who was respected by many.

Please accept my sincere condolences and know that you and your family will remain in our thoughts and prayers.

God's blessings,

April 13, 2015

David Proctor

"My prayers go out to your family Fred, but I know that they will cherish the memory of the man that you were. They can take comfort in the knowledge that you were a good man and lived a full life. They already know that you've already heard the words "WELL DONE MY GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT!" GOD bless you Fred for being the man that you were.

April 13, 2015

Melissa Jeffers

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. May God bless you and your family during this time.

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Apr

18

Memorial service

10:00 a.m.

Bellaire United Methodist Church

4417 Bellaire Boulevard, TX

Funeral services provided by:

Earthman Bellaire Funeral Home

4525 Bissonnet St, Bellaire, TX 77401

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