TITLE: In memory of Dr. Harold Leroy Smitson II of Henderson County.

SUMMARY: In memory of Dr. Harold Leroy Smitson II of Henderson County.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The city of Athens lost an esteemed community leader with the passing of Dr. Harold Leroy Smitson II on January 21, 2021, at the age of 72; and WHEREAS, Harold Smitson was born to Harold and Dorothy Smitson on February 24, 1948, in Olney and grew up with three siblings, Homer, Lora Ann, and Gary; a graduate of Midwestern University, he continued his studies at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and received his medical degree at just 21 years old; and WHEREAS, Dr. Smitson began his career at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, where he was the youngest radiology resident in hospital history, and after two years there, he left to take a position as the staff radiologist for Sheppard Air Force Base; he subsequently moved to Henderson County in the early 1970s and went on to practice medicine in the area for almost a half century; over the years, he served as a radiologist at multiple sites across East Texas and helped set up a mobile radiology lab; and WHEREAS, A devoted father, Dr. Smitson took great pride in his children, Steffanie, Christopher, Patrick, and Meagan; as the years passed, he had the privilege of seeing his family grow to include 10 beloved grandchildren, Seth, Rose, Amelia, Liam, Sean, Quinn, Willow, Bishop, Sutton, and Benton; and WHEREAS, Harold Smitson lived a life that was rich in personal and professional achievements, and memories of his kindness and generosity will forever hold a special place in the hearts of all who knew him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Dr. Harold Leroy Smitson II and extend sincere condolences to his loved ones; 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 Harold Smitson. Bell of Kaufman Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 286 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on March 18, 2021. Chief Clerk of the House