TITLE: In memory of James Steven Strain.

SUMMARY: In memory of James Steven Strain.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Family and friends will forever cherish their memories of James Steven Strain, who passed away on September 19, 2024, at the age of 68; and WHEREAS, The son of Carolyn and James Strain, Steve Strain was born on January 16, 1956, in Abilene, where he grew up alongside his siblings, Jayne and Kent; he attended Cooper High School and continued his education at The University of Texas at Austin; there, he studied business with an engineering minor and formed close friendships with his brothers in the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity; and WHEREAS, In 1978, Mr. Strain returned to Abilene to join his family's highway construction company, J. H. Strain & Sons; he eventually took over the company and grew it into a thriving four-generation business; active in his professional community, he was an area chair of the Association of General Contractors, and he contributed to his fellow citizens through leadership roles with various organizations, including The National Exchange Club and Serenity House; he also served on the board of Saint Paul United Methodist Church and volunteered extensively with the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest; and WHEREAS, Valuing family above all else, Mr. Strain was a devoted husband to his wife, Cindy, and he took great pride in his two sons, Ross and Whit; with the passing years, he had the privilege of seeing his family grow to include his two grandchildren, Austin and Alex; his life was further enriched by his wide circle of friends; and WHEREAS, Those fortunate enough to have known Steve Strain will remember the way he touched their lives with his warmth, kindness, and delightful sense of humor, and he will forever hold a treasured place in their hearts; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of James Steven Strain and extend heartfelt sympathy to his family and many friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Steve Strain. Lambert Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 959 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on May 23, 2025. Chief Clerk of the House