TITLE: In memory of Richard Preston Ritchie.

SUMMARY: In memory of Richard Preston Ritchie.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, With the passing of Richard Preston Ritchie on May 11, 2023, at the age of 68, the residents of Mineral Wells bid farewell to an accomplished attorney, a renowned athlete, and a respected community leader; and WHEREAS, Born on May 2, 1955, in Mineral Wells, Richard Ritchie was the son of John and Ann Ritchie; he gained national acclaim on the gridiron during his years at Texas A&I University, compiling a remarkable 39-0 record as the starting quarterback and leading the Javelinas to undefeated seasons in 1974, 1975, and 1976 that yielded three Lone Star Conference crowns and three NAIA Division I championships; named Most Valuable Player of the 1974 NAIA title game, he also garnered the 1975-1976 NAIA and LSC Player of the Year honors; he graduated in 1977 and later created the Richard Ritchie Endowment in support of the school's athletic programs; he was inducted into the Javelina Hall of Fame, the LSC Hall of Honor, and the College Football Hall of Fame, and he earned the Distinguished Alumni Award for his continuing involvement with the university; and WHEREAS, Mr. Ritchie went on to serve as an assistant football coach at The University of Texas at Austin, the University of North Texas, and Texas Tech University; after receiving his juris doctor degree from St. Mary's University in 1991, he embarked on his career as an attorney, following the tradition set by four previous generations in his family; he joined the Ritchie Law Firm in Mineral Wells to practice with his father, John, and played a prominent role in civic affairs, serving as an attorney for the Palo Pinto Water District and as a director of the First State Bank of Mineral Wells and the Brazos Foundation; moreover, he was president of the Noon Lions Club and captain of the Palo Pinto County Sheriff's Posse, and he also distinguished himself as a rancher, another occupation long pursued by the members of his family; and WHEREAS, In all his endeavors, Mr. Ritchie enjoyed the love and support of his wife, Penny, his daughters, Leslie Kay and Lacie, and his five grandchildren; and WHEREAS, Richard Ritchie drew on his leadership and expertise to benefit his fellow citizens, and his record of service will be a lasting source of inspiration to all who were privileged to know him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the life of Richard Preston Ritchie and extend sincere sympathy to the members of his family: to his wife, Penny Ritchie; to his daughters, Leslie Kay Ritchie Robnett and her husband, Kevin, and Lacie Ritchie Austin and her husband, Matthew; to his grandchildren, Elisha, Cyrus, Arleigh, Sky, and Sydney; and to his other relatives and friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Richard Ritchie. King President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 17, 2023, by a rising vote.