UH Law Mourns Alumni Leader Lawrence Pirtle; Family Establishes Endowed Scholarship
Quick summary: University of Houston Law Center alumnus Lawrence James Pirtle (J.D. ’66) is being remembered for his distinguished legal career, decades of service to the UH Law community, and mentorship of young attorneys. To honor his legacy, the Pirtle family has established the Lawrence and Judith Pirtle Endowed Scholarship Fund at the University of Houston Law Center.
A native Houstonian, Pirtle earned his undergraduate degree in accounting from the University of Houston before graduating from the UH Law Center in 1966. During law school, he served as associate editor of the Houston Law Review and was named Chief Baron of the Order of Barons.
Pirtle built a distinguished legal career specializing in tax and estate planning, practicing with several prominent firms including Childress, Port & Crady; Sewell & Riggs; Gardere Wynne; and Foley & Lardner. Known for his meticulous approach and exacting standards, he was widely respected as both a practitioner and mentor of young attorneys, many of whom credit him with shaping their professional foundations.
His influence extended well beyond private practice and left a lasting impact on the UH Law community.
“Larry was a remarkable man [and] a mentor to me in law school, as well as a trusted friend throughout our lives,” wrote Judge Alvin Zimmerman (J.D. ’67), now of counsel at Spencer Fane LLP., as a tribute. “He cast a huge shadow at UH Law and UH Law Review where he brought his wisdom to board positions in various organizations at this noble institution. He will be long remembered and missed by me and all those whose life he made a difference in.”
An active alumnus, he supported the UH Law Center for decades and in many different capacities. He served as the Law Foundation Board president from 2001-2002, director from 2005-2007, advisory director from 2008-2010 and emeritus director from 2010-2021 for. He was also president (1988-1989) and treasurer (1970-1971) for the Alumni Association Board.
In later years, Pirtle earned a master’s degree in philosophy from the University of St. Thomas. He also served as a member and vice-chairman on the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and was a frequent speaker for Houston Bar continuing legal education programs.
To honor his legacy, the Pirtle family has established the Lawrence and Judith Pirtle Endowed Scholarship Fund at the University of Houston Law Center, ensuring future generations of students will benefit from the values he championed throughout his life.
The family has requested that memorial gifts be directed to the Scholarship Fund at the University of Houston Law Center. Contributions may be made online here by selecting “Law Fund” and designating the “Lawrence and Judith Pirtle Endowed Scholarship Fund” in the special instructions.
“Lawrence Pirtle lived a life of purpose and service, sharing his time, wisdom and leadership generously with everyone, including the UH Law Center,” said UHLC Dean Leonard M. Baynes. “The Lawrence and Judith Pirtle Endowed Scholarship Fund will continue his legacy of support and shape future lawyers for years to come. We are grateful to the Pirtle family for this thoughtful gift.”
Visitation is scheduled 5-7 p.m. Thursday, April 30, at Geo H. Lewis & Sons Funeral Directors, 1010 Bering Drive in Houston. A funeral mass is scheduled 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 1, at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 3617 Milam St. in Houston.
