Belinda Ann Loveland

Belinda Ann Loveland (March 5, 1958 – June 20, 2010) was a warm, committed presence in Rowlett whose work and generosity left a lasting mark on countless young lives. A native of Dallas and a 1976 graduate of South Garland High School, Belinda found purpose in the law and in service to children. After earning her law degree from Texas Wesleyan University School of Law in 1998, she served the community as an attorney and as a juvenile court judge, bringing both high standards and compassion to her role.

Concerned about the rising number of juvenile offenses, Belinda created Reaching Our Community’s Kids (ROCK), an after-school mentoring program designed to give at-risk junior high students practical life skills and encouragement. She invested not only time but personal resources to ensure the program reached children who needed support, and Camp ROCK became a place where students could learn, belong, and find positive direction.

Belinda cherished family above all. She and her husband, Richard, made their home in Rowlett and raised their son Dustin. Friends and family remember her as someone who delighted in time with loved ones, who laughed easily, and who spoke up for young people in need. Her colleagues and those who appeared before her recall a judge who demanded accountability while still caring deeply about the futures of the youth she served.

Her sudden passing on June 20, 2010, was felt across Rowlett — by students, parents, court staff, and neighbors. The community gathered in mourning and to honor her service, and memorial gifts were directed toward helping underprivileged children in her name. Though her life was cut short, Belinda’s dedication to mentoring and her belief in the potential of young people continue to inspire those who carry on the work she began. She is survived by her son Dustin, her parents Joan and Lawrence Pickard, sisters Lorenda Stevenson and Stephanie Buhler, brother Dale Pickard, and many nieces, nephews, and friends who remember her generous spirit.