Spring Branch pocket park named in honor of Judge Bonnie Hellums

HOUSTON – Judge Bonnie Hellums now has a Spring Branch pocket park in her name, thanks to Precinct 4 Commissioner R. Jack Cagle.

Cagle  recommended Hellums for the honor based on her accomplishments as a family judge, lawyer, licensed counselor and as a higher-education administrator.

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Hellums served as judge of the 247th District Court for nearly 20 years.

“In her many positions, Bonnie has worked to help families and individuals stay connected. Now this park will continue her legacy,” said Commissioner Cagle. “This beautiful oasis in the community serves as a conveniently located neighborhood park for families, individuals, and children to use and enjoy together.”

Hellums is a longtime Houston resident. She earned a master’s degree in higher education administration and psychology from the University of Illinois before serving as dean of students at Rice University for 15 years. Hellums later returned to school to study law, earning her doctor of jurisprudence from South Texas College of Law in 1981. After working as a lawyer for a decade, Hellums served as judge of the 247th District Court from 1995 to 2014, where she started Harris County’s first Infant and Toddler Court and Family Drug Court.

Hellums now works as a senior district judge and is an active public speaker and community service advocate.

“I’m so honored to have this park reflect my name. This park is important to me because it is in the middle of a mixed-use residential area,” said Hellums. “There are only two things we can do for our children: One is to give them roots, another is to give them wings. This is the place we start to give them roots.”

Hellums Pocket Park is a one-acre Precinct 4 recreational area with a playground and pavilion. For more information, please call 281-353-8100.