SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 766

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize the Reverend Wayne Blankenship of the Southmont Baptist Church, who retired on January 31, 2007, after 50 years of devoted service in the ministry; and

WHEREAS, Over the last 50 years, Reverend Blankenship has ministered faithfully to the temporal and spiritual needs of countless people; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Blankenship has served as pastor at churches in Plainview, Rio Vista, Putnam, Charlie, and Weatherford and in Lake Charles, Louisiana; he served as senior pastor at the First Baptist Church in Denton from 1984 to 1996, and he has been associate pastor of Southmont Baptist Church for more than seven years; and

WHEREAS, Inspirational and dedicated to helping others, this beloved pastor has generously devoted his time and energy to the members of his church and the citizens of his community; during his ministry, his wife of 46 years, Sue Blankenship, has been by his side, lending him her support and encouragement; and

WHEREAS, A man of spiritual depth and devotion, Reverend Blankenship has performed countless ceremonies and has prayed with and counseled his church members during times of hardship and bereavement and has rejoiced with them during times of joy and celebration; and

WHEREAS, An accomplished scholar and theologian, Reverend Blankenship has had a positive influence on the lives of countless people; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 80th Legislature, hereby commend the Reverend Wayne Blankenship for his loyal years of service to Southmont Baptist Church; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Nelson

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 18, 2007.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate