SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 96

In Memory

of

Robert Vance Elkins

and

Von Dean Rose Elkins

WHEREAS, Residents of Tuscola suffered a heartbreaking loss on December 13, 2018, with the passing of Mayor Robert Vance Elkins, 82, and his wife, Von Dean Rose Elkins, 80, two respected and much-loved members of the community; and

WHEREAS, A native of Brownwood, Robert Elkins was born on September 3, 1936, to Robert and Roxie Elkins; after graduating from Brownwood High School and serving in the United States Naval Reserve, he joined the United States Army and was assigned to the Honor Guard in Washington, D.C., where he had the distinction of being present at the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy; and

WHEREAS, Following his discharge, Mr. Elkins worked for 36 years for the Texas Department of Transportation, which eventually promoted him to regional chief inspector; he served as a consultant for a number of paving companies after retiring from the department in 1994; his desire to make a positive difference in the lives of his fellow citizens led him to serve as a member of the city council from 2013 to 2016 and as mayor of Tuscola since 2016; during his time in office, he earned the high regard of his colleagues and constituents through his strong leadership, his genial manner, and his endearing sense of humor; and

WHEREAS, The former Von Dean Rose was born on December 29, 1937, in Runnels County to Bonnie and Lottie Mae Rose; she attended Morton High School, Lawn High School, and Draughon's Business School in Abilene, before working for Master's Manufacturing and Thornton's Department Store; she spent more than three decades at First State Bank of Tuscola, where she was a valued and beloved employee; and

WHEREAS, This esteemed couple were united in matrimony in Tuscola on February 8, 1964, and they lived there for the entirety of their 54 years of marriage; they raised two children, Rhonda and Tony, and later welcomed into their family six grandchildren, Demi, Dalton, Dillion, Ian, Colter, and Garrett, and two great-grandchildren, Aden and Tate; Mr. and Mrs. Elkins were further cherished by numerous friends and neighbors, who admired them for the kindness and generosity with which they treated everyone they encountered; and

WHEREAS, Deeply dedicated to their family and their community, Robert and Von Dean Elkins were a blessing in the lives of many, and they will forever hold a treasured place in the hearts of those they have left behind; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Mayor Robert Vance Elkins and Von Dean Rose Elkins of Tuscola and extend sincere condolences to all who mourn their passing; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for their family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Robert and Von Dean Elkins.

Buckingham

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on January 30, 2019, by a rising vote.

________________________________

Secretary of the Senate

________________________________

Member, Texas Senate