SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 463

In Memory

of

Effie Mae Caffee

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is honored to pay tribute to the life of Burkburnett resident Effie Mae Caffee, who at the age of 111 was the state's oldest resident; she died February 23, 2013; and

WHEREAS, She was born on February 11, 1902; she married Luther Caffee at the age of 20, and the two shared a 62-year union; Mrs. Caffee survived her spouse by almost three decades; and

WHEREAS, This plucky Texan kept her friends, family members, and scientists marveling at her longevity and stamina; only a few days after her 111th birthday, she was confirmed as the 16th-oldest person in the United States; she was even older than the town of Burkburnett, which marked its centennial anniversary six years ago; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Caffee was an inspiration to all those who knew her; she held a driver's license until the age of 107 and celebrated her most recent birthday in high spirits; she maintained her faculties until the time of her death, one of her only limitations being poor hearing, which finally forced her to retire from playing bingo; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Caffee recently underwent a series of tests conducted by researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine to learn more about the secret of her enduring soundness; medical scientists are also studying her genetic makeup to help future generations better understand the determining factors in individual longevity; and

WHEREAS, This extraordinary lady was known to have a playful sense of humor, and she had a coy attitude about her age until she was 105, when her children convinced her to participate in the centennial celebration of Burkburnett and accept honors as its oldest resident; she will long be remembered by her family and her friends for her warmth, wit, wisdom, and vitality; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Effie Mae Caffee; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her 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 Effie Mae Caffee. Estes

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 18, 2013, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate