TITLE: In memory of Charles J. Hensley.

SUMMARY: In memory of Charles J. Hensley.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Memories of a life well lived remain to comfort the family and friends of Charles J. Hensley of Hawkins, who passed away on February 11, 2023, at the age of 85; and WHEREAS, Born in Sherman on November 25, 1937, to Gladys and Dude Hensley, Charlie Hensley grew up with the companionship of two siblings, Benny and Patricia; while in high school, he struck up a friendship with the former Sonja Overbey, whom he went on to marry on July 26, 1956; during the more than 65 years they shared, they were blessed with two sons, Bud and David, as well as 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; and WHEREAS, After serving as a member of the Texas Army National Guard, Mr. Hensley began his career as a game warden with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1962; he reported to his first duty station in Corpus Christi, and his passion for his work drove him to excel and climb the ranks within the department; over the years, he earned promotions to Dallas district supervisor in 1972 and Fort Worth regional director in 1975, and he was elevated to chief of staff in Austin in 1990; he served as director of law enforcement from 1992 until his retirement at the rank of colonel, following 34 years with the agency; and WHEREAS, Mr. Hensley was a member of the Texas Game Warden Association, the Game Warden Peace Officers Association, the Iris Society of Austin, and the Hill Country Gardeners Club; a man of faith, he was also an ordained Baptist deacon; he shared his love of gardening and working on carpentry projects with his wife, and he was fond of going on hunting trips with his friends; through the years, he and his wife enjoyed hosting gatherings at their home with game wardens, neighbors, and members of their church congregation; and WHEREAS, Charlie Hensley was an esteemed public servant, a devoted family man, and a dear friend, and he will forever be remembered with admiration and affection by those he leaves behind; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the life of Charles J. Hensley and extend sincere sympathy to the members of his family: to his wife, Sonja Hensley; to his sons, Bud Hensley and his wife, Jeana, and David Hensley and his wife, Cathy; to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; to his sister, Patricia; and to all others who mourn his passing; 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 Charlie Hensley. Hughes President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 15, 2023, by a rising vote.