TITLE: In memory of Norman Lee Robinson.

SUMMARY: In memory of Norman Lee Robinson.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of North Texas in mourning the loss of the Reverend Norman Lee Robinson, who died April 28, 2017, at the age of 96; and WHEREAS, Norman Robinson was born on February 23, 1921, in Sanger, Texas; a man of spiritual depth and uncommon wisdom and compassion, he was a revered Christian leader and was widely admired for living a life of charitable service; and WHEREAS, Pastor Robinson served his country with distinction in the United States Army during World War II; he began working for the Dallas Housing Authority in 1946, and he retired from his position with the city after a 30-year career; and WHEREAS, In 1962, Pastor Robinson graduated from the Southern Bible Institute of Dallas, and that same year, he began a life of ministry at Saint John Missionary Baptist Church in Grand Prairie; he answered the call to minister at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Arlington in 1966, when the church had a membership of only 17 congregants; since then, the congregation has grown to more than 12,000, and the church has flourished; today, the church has the support of 35 ministers and more than 100 deacons; and WHEREAS, Under Pastor Robinson's exemplary leadership, Mount Olive Baptist Church launched dozens of ministries and became a cornerstone of the Arlington community; this esteemed church leader was honored with the keys to the Cities of Arlington and Grand Prairie, and he was presented with letters of commendation by Presidents Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton; in 1992, the City of Arlington renamed a street in his honor; and WHEREAS, Pastor Robinson shared a life of spiritual service with his devoted wife, the late Pearl Marie Taylor Robinson, and their three children and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren were a source of immense pride and joy; and WHEREAS, Known for his vibrant personality and his direct, uncompromising approach to sharing the Gospel, Pastor Norman Robinson touched the lives of countless citizens; he was beloved by many, and his proud spiritual legacy will continue to be a source of strength and inspiration to all who were privileged to know him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of the Reverend Norman Lee Robinson; 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 Norman Robinson. Hancock, West President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 4, 2017, by a rising vote.