SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 235

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to pay tribute to Luther Vernon Francis on the joyous occasion of his 100th birthday, which is being celebrated on February 25, 2023, in Prairie View; and

WHEREAS, Born on February 24, 1923, in Paris, Texas, Luther Vernon Francis is an exemplary citizen and an accomplished gentleman and scholar; a beloved and respected member of his Prairie View community, Luther is admired for his many notable achievements as well as for his charming wit, his impeccable sense of style, and his generous and gracious spirit; and

WHEREAS, A gifted and determined individual, Luther graduated salutatorian of his high school class and went on to serve in the Civilian Conservation Corps and in the United States Army, during which time he developed his skill as a land surveyor and enrolled as a student at Prairie View College; and

WHEREAS, After earning his master's degree, Luther was hired as a professor at Prairie View A&M College and began a long and rewarding career at the school; he became a highly esteemed faculty member and a trusted administrator, and he served the institution in various leadership roles over the years, including as a department head, facility director, and business manager; and

WHEREAS, In addition to serving as an educator, Luther learned to fly airplanes and obtained a pilot license; his experience as a land surveyor and his familiarity with the local terrain were an asset to him during many of his flights, as he occasionally needed to pilot his plane into landing in the dark without the benefit of lights; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his life, Luther has met both challenges and opportunities with strength and virtue; he has been privileged to witness historic events and achievements that many people only read about in history books, and there is much to be learned from the wisdom he has gained; a 100th birthday is truly a milestone deserving of recognition, and it is indeed fitting that his loved ones gather to express their appreciation and affection and to celebrate this momentous occasion; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby recognize Luther Vernon Francis as a treasured citizen of the Lone Star State and extend to him congratulations on his 100th birthday and best wishes for a memorable birthday celebration; and, be it further

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

West

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 28, 2023.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate