SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 702

In Memory

of

Johnny Welton Self

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of Johnny Welton Self, who died December 21, 2022, at the age of 72; and

WHEREAS, Johnny Self was born on January 29, 1950, in Zachary, Louisiana; a fiercely determined civic leader, he broke through countless barriers and dedicated his career to serving the residents of the Lone Star State; and

WHEREAS, After earning a degree in business management from Southern University in 1972, John became the first Black firefighter to serve with the Arlington Fire Department in 1973; he bravely served the Arlington community while demonstrating the unique courage and sound judgment of his profession with pride; and

WHEREAS, After leaving the fire department, John worked for the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts before transitioning to a role with TXU Energy; a magnetic leader and trailblazer, he was elected vice president of the TXU Energy board and was the first Black man to serve in the role; and

WHEREAS, John acted as a government advisor with TXU Energy and Oncor Electric Delivery and worked closely with many state officials and political leaders throughout his career; his unflagging optimism and commitment to serving the public established him as a widely respected and popular figure at the Texas Capitol, and he continued to serve as a political consultant after his retirement from the energy sector; and

WHEREAS, John was a devoted parishioner of Mount Olive Baptist Church, where he served as an usher, Sunday school teacher, deacon, and executive board member; he was married to the love of his life, Beatrice, for 49 years, and he cherished his two children, Jeremy and Jarita, and his three grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, A man of courage, strength, and integrity, Johnny's wisdom and generous spirit enriched the lives of many, and his memory will be forever treasured by his loved ones and friends and by all who were privileged to share in his life; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Johnny Welton Self; 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 Johnny Self.

West

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 28, 2023, by a rising vote.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate