Longtime Lockhart resident McCormick fondly remembered
LPR Staff
Longtime Lockhart resident Michael J. McCormick, former Presiding Judge of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, passed away at the age of 77 on July 23, but his legacy will remain.
Lockhart Mayor Lew White and Senior District Judge Todd Blomerth each recalled McCormick’s impact.
“McCormick was a long time attorney who was very involved in the District Attorney Association,” White said. “He was very dedicated to his office and was very highly respected. His wife (Kathleen Kelley McCormick of Canyon Lake) was also very active in the community of Lockhart. It was a very sad loss when they had to move down to New Braunfels because of failing health and it’s a very big loss with his passing.”
Blomerth said he had the privilege of being sworn into office by McCormick when he became the District Judge of the 421st Judicial District Court in 2004.
“Judge McCormick was a wonderful jurist and his reputation for excellence and insight are unparalleled,” Blomerth said. “Mike was approachable, interesting, and fun to be around. He was also deeply committed to ensuring Lockhart would continue to be a wonderful place to live and raise a family. For years, he and Kathy were part of the driving force that kept the ‘Speaking of the Dead: Night Ramblings in a Texas Graveyard’ alive and vibrant.
“It was an honor to call him my friend. He will be missed.”
Oh, how I wish I could have tried more cases in front of this worthy jurist. My all time favorite and most cherished smoke breaks ever were spent on the sidewalk of W. 11th Street outside the Republic of Travis County courthouse with Judge McCormick. “Counsel, you just tried one hell of a case. Now go get yourself a drink.” Highest compliment I ever received in my line of work, and it could not have come from a more respectable and venerable source.