SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 214


In Memory

of

Gary Staley

	WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and 
commemorates the life of Gary Staley, who died January 19, 2003; 
and
	WHEREAS, Gary graduated from Kingwood High School in 1988; 
he was employed as an accountant for Anadarko Petroleum in 
The Woodlands for a number of years; he graduated from the 
Cleveland Fire Academy in November of 2002; and
	WHEREAS, An exemplary citizen, Gary was dedicated to his 
work as a member of the Porter Volunteer Fire Department; he 
always responded to emergencies in a trustworthy and courageous 
manner; in December of 2002, he became a member of the 250 Club 
for having answered 304 fire and Emergency Medical Service calls 
during the year; and
	WHEREAS, A hero is an ordinary individual who responds to a 
crisis in an extraordinary manner, and Gary Staley consistently 
met this challenge; and
	WHEREAS, On January 19, 2003, Gary joined his fellow 
firefighters in responding to a fire that had broken out in an 
antique car showroom and shop; in the ensuing attempt to quell 
the fire, Gary lost his life; and
	WHEREAS, Gary had diligently prepared himself for the 
vital role that a firefighter plays in a community, and he 
treasured the time he spent protecting the safety of his fellow 
citizens; and

	WHEREAS, A man of integrity, strength, and generosity, 
Gary Staley gave unselfishly to others, and his wisdom, warmth, 
and valued counsel will not be forgotten by those who knew him; 
and
	WHEREAS, Gary was a devoted father, son, and brother, and 
he leaves behind memories that will be treasured forever by his 
family and many friends; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 
78th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the 
bereaved family of Gary Staley:  his daughter, Courtney Staley; 
his parents, Donald and Ruby Staley; his sister, Karla Staley; 
his brother, Matthew Staley; his grandmother, Maudine O'Neal; 
and many other beloved relatives; and, be it further
	RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for 
the members of his family as an expression of deepest sympathy 
from the Texas Senate, and that when the Senate adjourns this 
day, it do so in memory of Gary Staley.
                                                                        Williams




________________________________ 
    President of the Senate
 
    I hereby certify that the 
above Resolution was adopted by 
the Senate on February 24, 2003, 
by a rising vote.



________________________________ 
    Secretary of the Senate



________________________________ 
     Member, Texas Senate