TITLE: In memory of Sofia Carmen Pena de Garcia.

SUMMARY: In memory of Sofia Carmen Pena de Garcia.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas pays tribute to the life of Sofia Carmen Pena de Garcia, who died March 24, 2013, at the age of 87; and WHEREAS, Sofia Carmen Pena was born on July 17, 1925, to a pioneer family in Starr County and grew up during the Great Depression and World War II; and WHEREAS, At the age of 18, Sofia was granted an emergency teaching certificate and went on to teach school for the next five years; she would end up dedicating much of her life to enriching the lives of young people by opening their minds to new ideas, instilling in them a sense of purpose, and encouraging their curiosity; and WHEREAS, In 1949, Sofia married Eudocio Garcia, and she spent the next 10 years tending to their growing family; she resumed her teaching career, and in order to further her own education and expand her opportunities, she attended Pan American College and earned a bachelor of science degree in 1967; she spent the next two decades teaching school; she also earned a certificate in special education; she retired in 1985 from Florence J. Scott Elementary School in Roma; and WHEREAS, A woman of integrity, strength, and generosity, Mrs. Garcia gave unselfishly of her time to others; she had a passion for teaching and enjoyed helping people of all ages; Sofia enhanced the lives of all who knew her, and she leaves behind memories that will long be cherished by her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and by her many friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Sofia Carmen Pena de Garcia; 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 Sofia Garcia. Lucio President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 15, 2013, by a rising vote.