TITLE: In memory of Ben Figueroa Jr.

SUMMARY: In memory of Ben Figueroa Jr.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and commemorates the life of Ben Figueroa Jr., who died on July 18, 2022, at the age of 75; and WHEREAS, Ben Figueroa Jr. was an exemplary community leader and citizen who was widely esteemed for his wise counsel, his dedication to duty, and his tireless service to others; and WHEREAS, Ben was born on January 19, 1947, in Kingsville; he earned bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology and history from Texas A&M--Kingsville and held certificates and licenses in criminal justice and as a chemical dependency counselor, an anger management facilitator, and a youth relationship and family wellness trainer; and WHEREAS, A veteran of the United States Navy, Ben served his country with distinction; he was involved in various organizations in his community, where he served on the Spohn-Kleberg Hospital Advisory Board and on the boards of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2375, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kingsville, the Greater Kingsville Economic Development Council, and the Knights of Columbus Council 2623; and WHEREAS, Guided by a spirit of compassion and generosity, Ben founded the Institute of Rural Development Foster Youth and Transitional Living Center and Los A os De Oro senior citizen housing in Kleberg County; he served as director of the Institute of Rural Development in Kingsville and as executive director of Kleberg County Human Services, and he was instrumental in developing multiple grants benefiting the residents of Kingsville and members of the surrounding community; and WHEREAS, Above all, Ben was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who treasured his family and gave generously to help those in need; left to cherish his memory is his family: his beloved wife of 55 years, Edna Figueroa; their children, Terri Morales and Ted Figueroa; his granddaughters, Terra, Katie, and Karyssa; his sister, Lolly Arispe; and his nieces and nephews; and WHEREAS, Ben's outstanding service and dedication to his country, his state, and his community have made a positive difference in the lives of countless people, and he will be remembered with great respect and admiration 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 Ben Figueroa Jr.; 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 Ben Figueroa Jr. LaMantia President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 1, 2023, by a rising vote.