TITLE: In memory of Willie Belle Porter of Longview.

SUMMARY: In memory of Willie Belle Porter of Longview.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, A life rich in family, faith, and friendship drew to a close with the passing of Willie Belle Porter of Longview on October 24, 2010, at the age of 91; and WHEREAS, The ninth child of William and Laura Pettey, the former Willie Belle Pettey was born in Mahl on November 15, 1918; she was joined in matrimony to Madison Jones Porter, and they became the parents of three daughters, Diane, Suzanne, and Jane Ellis; and WHEREAS, In 1959, Mr. Porter's untimely death left Mrs. Porter to raise her little girls on her own; her motto was "if there's a will, there's a way," and she maintained a warm and welcoming household while working as a secretary for the Longview Independent School District and serving as president of the Longview Secretaries Association; she retired from the district after 27 years of dedicated service; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Porter was beloved for her kindness and hospitality; she was a valued member of First Baptist Church for more than six decades, and she found special fulfillment in her Bible Club; with a green thumb and a passion for flowers, she also belonged to the Camellia Garden Club and carefully tended spectacular azaleas, hydrangeas, and camellias; in addition, this gracious lady was known for her skill in duplicate bridge and demonstrated a sense of style in the elegant attire she chose for every occasion; and WHEREAS, Devoted to her grandchildren, Mrs. Porter kept plenty of games and crafts to amuse them on their visits, although any activity with "Granny" was bound to be great fun; she adored taking them shopping or on other outings, and her enthusiasm and creativity helped them develop their imaginations; and WHEREAS, Willie Belle Porter brought joy to all who were privileged to know her, and her shining example of resilience, generosity, and devotion will forever remain an inspiration to those she leaves behind; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Willie Belle Porter and that sincere condolences be extended to the members of her family: to her daughters, Diane Patrick and her husband, Ned, Suzanne Gordon and her husband, Pete, and Jane Ellis Statton; to her grandchildren, Craig Patrick, Claire Casteel, Edwin, Todd, and Chad Gordon, and Tori and Madison Statton; to her great-grandchildren, Garrett, Drake, and Wren Casteel, Stella and Mia Patrick, and Choochy, Jackson, Paul, Katie, Noah, Finneas, Jillian, Benjamin, and Fyetka Gordon; and to her other relatives and friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the members of her family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in the memory of Willie Belle Porter. Patrick Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 144 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on February 24, 2011. Chief Clerk of the House