Hootie Schoen

Saladin "Hootie" Shad Schoen, passed away on Thursday, October 2, 2025 in Fort Worth surrounded by his family. Hootie's family will host a visitation from 1:00 to 3:00 PM Tuesday, October 7th at Heartland Funeral Home in Early, prior to Funeral services at 3:00 PM in the Heartland Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Blanket Cemetery.

Hootie Schoen, 49, a 1995 graduate of Brownwood High School, was a beloved son, brother, father, teammate, and friend. A natural athlete with an even bigger heart, Hootie grew up on the diamond and the track. As a boy, he played on the state-winning Red Sox Little League team coached by his father, Henry Schoen-an early highlight he cherished for life.

At Brownwood High, Hootie excelled in track and field, competing in the 110-meter high hurdles, 300-meter hurdles, 4x400 relay, long jump, and triple jump. He was a standout who took great pride in the medals he earned through grit and determination. Under Friday-night lights, he was a force at defensive back for the Brownwood Lions, earning first-team all-district honors, all West Texas DB, the respect of coaches, teammates, and opponents alike.

Beyond athletics, Hootie was known for his open smile and open hand-he never met a stranger and would help anyone who needed it. He was a tireless worker who did whatever it took to provide for his family. His greatest joy was being a dad. Whether it was sports, an academic awards ceremony, a dance or piano recital, or a cheer competition, you could spot Hootie, cheering loudest and proudest for his kids. He also shared his love of the outdoors with them, spending countless hours hunting, fishing, and exploring the mountains together-creating memories that will last a lifetime and teaching them to appreciate the beauty and peace found in nature.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Caleb Schoen and Marissa Jaquez, Carli Schoen, and Caiti Schoen; his mother, Melody Schoen; his sister, Satanta Pettijohn and Randy; and his nephews, Colton and Levi Pettijohn, and his favorite animals Talulah and Koda. Hootie is preceded in death by his father, Henry Schoen.

"For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." -Romans 8:18