TITLE: In memory of Dr. Joe Frederick "Ric" Bennett Jr. of Coolidge.

SUMMARY: In memory of Dr. Joe Frederick "Ric" Bennett Jr. of Coolidge.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Dr. Joe Frederick Bennett Jr. of Coolidge, a beloved veterinarian and friend to many, passed away on June 16, 2020, at the age of 71; and WHEREAS, "Ric" Bennett was born to Joe Fred and Mavis Haupt Bennett on July 19, 1948, in Mexia and grew up in nearby Coolidge, where he graduated from Coolidge High School in 1966; he went on to complete both his undergraduate studies and veterinary school at Texas A&M University; and WHEREAS, Following his graduation in 1972, Dr. Bennett established his own practice, Bennett Veterinary Clinic, in Mexia, where he continued to care for animals for the rest of his life; he earned the trust and friendship of many pet owners in the community and also enjoyed the admiration and affection of a devoted staff; and WHEREAS, An engaged citizen, Dr. Bennett served on the Coolidge Independent School District Board of Trustees for four decades; he supported many organizations throughout Limestone County and beyond, and he often volunteered as a cook for fundraisers and other events; an avid hunter, he was a member of Ducks Unlimited; and WHEREAS, Dr. Bennett was deeply devoted to his wife, Julia, and his children, Rick and Rae Ann; with the passing years, he had the pleasure of seeing his family grow to include two grandchildren; and WHEREAS, Ric Bennett touched countless lives with his kindness, warmth, and generosity, and he leaves behind a legacy that his loved ones can remember with pride; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Dr. Joe Frederick Bennett Jr. and extend heartfelt sympathy to the members of his family: to his wife, Julia Bennett; to his son, Rick Bennett, and his wife, Trudy; to his daughter, Rae Ann Egan-Wyer, and her husband, Stephen; to his grandchildren, Hayden Bennett and Tatum Bennett; to his sister, Joan Baxter; and to his other relatives and many friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Ric Bennett. Kacal Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 945 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on May 8, 2021. Chief Clerk of the House