SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 143

In Memory

of

O. C. Houston

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Austin in mourning the loss of O. C. Houston, who died January 27, 2013, at the age of 66; and

WHEREAS, O. C. Houston was an exemplary citizen who was widely respected and admired in his community for his many achievements; and

WHEREAS, A lifelong Austinite, Mr. Houston was the longtime owner of Hospital Pharmacy; he was among the first African Americans to earn a degree from The University of Texas College of Pharmacy, and he served as a role model for aspiring pharmacists and other members of the East Austin community; and

WHEREAS, He was known for his generosity to his customers, often giving them the medicine they needed and allowing them to pay for it later; he was given the Bowl of Hygeia Award by the Texas Pharmacy Association for his community service, and he received the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and Martin Luther King, Jr., humanitarian awards; and

WHEREAS, A man of courage, strength, and compassion, he gave unselfishly to others; he was noted for his wisdom, his business acumen, and his enthusiasm for living each day to the fullest, 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, 83rd Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of O. C. Houston; 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, and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of O. C. Houston.

Watson

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 6, 2013, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate