SHERMAN, Texas (KTEN) —  The life of former Sherman Independent School District Superintendent Dr. David Hicks ended unexpectedly last September.

On Tuesday, his career was honored.

"I feel like Dr. Hicks' legacy is just helping these children in any way we can, being a major impact to them, teaching them," said Eric Ross of the Sherman Rotary Club.

Hicks devoted his life to the people of Sherman and to education, so in honor of his birthday, the United Way of Grayson County and the Sherman ISD have established Literacy Day.

"That's a tough day for his family and friends, and so if we can do something to uplift them and know that his life was spent well served to our community, I think it's a good thing," said Katie Eubank of the United Way.

She said part of Hicks' legacy is uplifting kids through literacy programs.

"One of his favorite things to do was to read to children, so we thought this would be a good way to honor him today," Eubank said. 

More than 100 volunteers read books to elementary students.

"He really made an impact on our community in six years; you know, that's a pretty good amount of time, and I think just seeing the number of volunteers just speaks to how impactful he was," Eubank said.

Ross was among the volunteers who read to students. He was personally impacted by Dr. Hicks.

"He brought just a good atmosphere; he's just an exciting person, and his energy that he brought was always just for the kids," Ross said.

The United Way plans to make Literacy Day an annual tradition.