TITLE: In memory of Officer Jillian Michelle Smith of the Arlington Police Department.

SUMMARY: In memory of Officer Jillian Michelle Smith of the Arlington Police Department.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Arlington police officer Jillian Michelle Smith was killed in the line of duty on December 28, 2010, at the age of 24, and her untimely death was a tragic loss to her family, to her fellow peace officers, and to the residents of her community; and WHEREAS, Jillian Smith was born to Douglas and Sonya Smith on December 18, 1986, in Arlington; after graduating from Juan Seguin High School in 2005, she earned her bachelor's degree in criminology and criminal justice with honors from The University of Texas at Arlington in August 2009; and WHEREAS, Pursuing her long-held dream of becoming a police officer, Ms. Smith joined the Arlington Police Department in February 2010 and graduated from the Arlington Police Academy in August; after completing field training on December 13, 2010, she began her evening patrol assignment in the South Arlington district; her strong work ethic and determination were recognized by her classmates at the academy and by her field training officers; and WHEREAS, A lifelong resident of Arlington, Officer Smith was passionate about protecting the citizens of her community; she was also a dedicated member of Mount Olive Baptist Church, where in her younger days she enjoyed singing with the youth choir; known for her adventurous spirit and her warm smile, Officer Smith was deeply cherished by her family and friends; and WHEREAS, This courageous Texan embodied the highest ideals of her profession, and her heroism, humanity, and sacrifice will long be remembered by all those whose lives she touched; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Officer Jillian Michelle Smith and extend deepest sympathy to the members of her family: to her parents, Douglas and Sonya Smith; to her sister, Jessica Smith; to her nephew, Cameron Smith; and to her many other relatives and friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for her family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Officer Jillian Michelle Smith.