Honor Judge Underwood's legacy by supporting Sonshine

Our loved father, grandfather, friend, and community leader, Olen Underwood, has ended the race of this life and entered into the glory of eternal life. As a way to honor him, we invite you to consider donating to the ministry he started - You Are My Sonshine Ministries. Sonshine has been a place of refreshment for pastors and other Christian leaders for many years.

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Judge Olen Underwood, 82, passed away peacefully into the arms of his Savior on February 28, 2025.

Olen Ulesus Underwood was the rock of his family, a devoted father to four children and a beloved grandfather to thirteen. His steady presence, unwavering support, and deep care for those around him made him not only a cherished family man but also a loyal friend to many.

Judge Underwood dedicated over 40 years of his life to serving the State of Texas as a judge in Montgomery County. He was the first judge of the 284th District Court, presiding from 1981 to 2005. His wisdom and leadership earned him the trust of three Texas governors, who appointed him as the Presiding Judge of the Second Administrative Region, a role he held from 1996 to 2022. A highly respected figure in the legal community, he also served on numerous judicial and nonprofit boards, shaping the justice system with integrity and compassion.

His passion for justice extended beyond the courtroom. Judge Underwood was a tireless advocate for troubled and vulnerable youth. In 1993, he founded the Student Transition and Recovery (STAR) Program, a groundbreaking mentoring initiative aimed at preventing incarceration for middle school students—a program that has since expanded to multiple states. He was instrumental in bringing the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) program to Montgomery County and served for nearly a decade as the Presiding Juvenile Judge in Conroe, working to change the trajectory of young lives. His service to the youth of Montgomery County was further recognized with the naming of the Olen Underwood Juvenile Justice Center.

Before his legal career, Olen was a gifted athlete. He played football for the University of Texas from 1961 to 1964, winning a National Championship with the Longhorns in 1963. His contributions to the team were later honored with his induction into the Longhorn Hall of Honor in 2003. Drafted by the New York Giants, he went on to play linebacker in the NFL and AFL from 1965 to 1971, with the New York Giants, Houston Oilers and Denver Broncos. In 1968, he was selected for the Pro Bowl. While playing for the Oilers, he also pursued his legal education, earning his law degree from the University of Houston Law Center in 1970. He practiced law in private practice before his appointment to the bench.

Beyond his professional achievements, Olen was a man of deep faith. He founded You Are My Sonshine Ministries, a retreat center dedicated to supporting pastors and the Christian community. His love for Christ was evident in all aspects of his life, and he lived by the words of Micah 6:8: “Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.”

A Celebration of Life service will be held on March 16 at 2:00 PM at The Woodlands Bible Church, 995 Pinyon Pine Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77380. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to You Are My Sonshine Ministries at 411 S. Rivershire Conroe, TX 77304.

Judge Underwood’s legacy is one of unwavering service, steadfast faith, and profound kindness. His impact will be felt for generations to come.