TITLE: In memory of Mary Lou Grier.

SUMMARY: In memory of Mary Lou Grier.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of San Antonio in mourning the loss of noted political activist Mary Lou Grier, who died February 15, 2013, at the age of 87; and WHEREAS, Mary Lou Grier was raised in the Panama Canal Zone; she attended the University of Missouri School of Journalism and worked with the Honolulu Star-Bulletin during World War II while her husband worked with the United States Army Air Corps; and WHEREAS, After the war, the family moved to San Antonio, where she became active in local political activities; Mrs. Grier served as vice chair of the Bexar County Republican Party at a time when Republicans in Texas were a distinct minority; and WHEREAS, She was willing to run for office herself to ensure that the party fielded candidates in as many races as possible; she ran for Bexar County district clerk in the early 1960s; in 1974, she was the first woman nominated to run for a statewide office when she ran for the position of land commissioner; and WHEREAS, She played a significant role in the party's growth in Texas by helping John Tower become the first Republican United States senator from Texas since Reconstruction; she also served as Tom Loeffler's campaign manager in 1978 and traveled across the state with him as he visited each county; and WHEREAS, Through the years, she held a variety of administrative positions within federal government agencies; she worked with the United States Department of the Interior, the Small Business Administration, and the National Park Service; and WHEREAS, A woman of courage, strength, and determination, she gave unselfishly to others, and her wisdom, warmth, and valued counsel will not be forgotten by those who knew her; and WHEREAS, She was a devoted wife and mother, and she leaves behind memories that will be cherished forever by her family and countless friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Mary Lou Grier; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her 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 Mary Lou Grier. Campbell President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 18, 2013, by a rising vote.