SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 424

In Memory

of

Modesto Garcia

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of Modesto "Mo" Garcia, who died April 25, 2021, at the age of 92; and

WHEREAS, Modesto Garcia was born on May 31, 1928, in San Diego, Texas; he completed his early and secondary education in his hometown, and he joined the United States Army in 1946; he served with distinction and was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal for his service in Japan; after concluding his military service, he returned home to continue his education in South Texas; and

WHEREAS, Mo attended Del Mar College for two years and was a member of the basketball team before attending Laredo Junior College, where he played on the football team; he then transferred to Southwest Texas State University, where he played as an offensive guard on the football team and earned All-Conference honors; he graduated in 1954, and he began a long and rewarding career as a coach that same year; and

WHEREAS, During his 35 years of coaching, he guided young athletes at San Diego High School, Rio Grande City High School, Robstown High School, Falfurrias High School, and Homer Hanna High School; he retired from coaching in 1987, and over the course of his career, he amassed an impressive list of accomplishments that included a football record of 115-83-4, an appearance in the basketball state finals, eight district championships in track, and one district championship in golf; and

WHEREAS, An esteemed citizen and member of the Brownsville community, he was honored with multiple accolades for professional excellence and for his dedication as a coach throughout his career; he served as a director of the Texas High School Coaches Association and was a longstanding congregant of Saint Mary's Church, where he served on the Parish Council and on the finance committee; in all his endeavors, he was supported by the love and encouragement of Maria Gloria Valerio Garcia, his wife of 62 years, and his seven children and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a source of much pride and joy for him; and

WHEREAS, Mo Garcia was a beloved husband and father, a devoted coach and mentor, and a cherished friend to many; he leaves a lasting legacy in the countless individuals whose lives he touched, and he will long be remembered with great respect and admiration by all who were privileged to share in his life; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Modesto Garcia; 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 Mo Garcia.

Lucio

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 17, 2021, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate