Avery Dowell Bearden, Jr., 81, of Dallas, Texas, met his eternal Father Sunday, November 17, 2013. He was born August 7, 1932, in Dallas, Texas to Avery and Sarah Brooks Bearden. He was married to Billye Scott Bearden of Dallas. Avery attended Jesuit Preparatory College and graduated from Irving High School in 1951. After High School he served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict. He received many awards for his outstanding athleticism in many sports, including Football and his most loved sport, Baseball. Avery was a dedicated lifelong learner, graduating from Amberton University with his Masters Degree in 2004. His professional career included six years as a stock-broker and 25 years in the apparel trade show industry. After retirement, Avery enjoyed playing tennis, was a USTA tennis official, and volunteered at the Scottish Rite Hospital. He earned his Eagle Scout status in 1946, achieving Order of the Arrow Award, and served many years as a certified camp counselor for the Boy Scouts of America. Avery was a permanent substitute teacher for the DISD for years and was commonly referred to as "Mr B." by his students at Hillcrest High School. In recent years, Avery's greatest joy was spending time with his aunt, at her assisted living community. He enjoyed daily visits, volunteering and bringing joy to all residents. His caring nature and sweet smile will be greatly missed. He was a faithful member of Christ the King Church. Avery is survived by his loving wife, Billye Scott Bearden; sister, Sara Bearden Browder; aunt, Annyce Evans McDonald; daughter, Avah White; sister and brother in-law, LaNorma and Michael Alaga, and many nieces and nephews; along with many other loving relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Avery Dowell and Sarah Brooks Bearden of Irving, Texas. A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2013 at Christ the King Church, 8017 Preston Road, Dallas, TX with the Rev. Msgr. Donald F. Zimmerman officiating. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association and the Jesuit Alumni for Needy Students.

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