SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 30

In Memory

of

Toby Powell

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Conroe in mourning the loss of Toby Powell, who died September 12, 2020, at the age of 79; and

WHEREAS, Toby Powell was an esteemed community leader and served as mayor of Conroe; a lifelong Conroe resident, he was born at the Montgomery County Hospital, and he enjoyed growing up in Conroe and considered it an idyllic place in which to live; he graduated from Conroe High School in 1959, and he worked at his family's Shell station from sixth grade through his college years at Sam Houston State University; and

WHEREAS, Toby began his career by serving as an employee for Ernest Butler, a builder, and for an architect in Houston who taught him to design homes; he returned to Conroe after two years of professional experience in the field of home building, and he accepted a position with Bill Newton, a local developer; Toby's notable contributions to subdivision development projects led to his service in a series of leadership roles with civic institutions, including the City Planning Commission and the Conroe City Council, and in 2010, he was appointed mayor pro tempore; and

WHEREAS, In 2016, Toby was elected mayor of the City of Conroe, and he served with integrity and enthusiasm and with a determination to ensure the city's continued growth and prosperity; he eased tax burdens for citizens while guiding wide-scale civic improvements and expanding opportunities for residents; his spirited and wise leadership helped to ensure that the community he loved was positioned to meet the changing demands of modern society; and

WHEREAS, Toby Powell was an exemplary citizen and an admirable public servant, and he was a treasured congregant of Mims Baptist Church; he was beloved by many, and he leaves behind memories that will long be cherished by his family, friends, and area citizens; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Toby Powell: his wife of 22 years, Vanessa Powell, and his three children; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate.

Creighton

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 9, 2021, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate