TITLE: In memory of Johnnie Ingram Bendy of Mineola.

SUMMARY: In memory of Johnnie Ingram Bendy of Mineola.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, A full and generous life drew to a close with the passing of Johnnie Ingram Bendy of Mineola on July 22, 2013, at the age of 94; and WHEREAS, Born in Longview on December 2, 1918, to John and Lee Ella Ingram, the former Johnnie Ingram was named for her father, who died in the Spanish flu epidemic just three weeks before her birth; encouraged by her mother to get an education, she attended Texas College, Prairie View College, Colorado State University, and East Texas State University; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Bendy taught school in Mineola for nearly four decades and received both local and national recognition for her achievements as an educator; deeply involved in the life of her community, she served for seven years on the city Planning and Zoning Board and played an instrumental role in the development of the Mineola Nature Preserve, which has named one of its trails in her honor; a longtime block chair for the United Way, this inspiring woman was also a member of the Mineola Historical Society, the Friends of the Library, and the Lake Country Playhouse, and she organized a group to bake birthday cakes for monthly parties at a local nursing home; and WHEREAS, Mrs. Bendy was joined in matrimony in 1945 with her first husband, Elmore Edmonds, who preceded her in death; fortunate to find love again, she exchanged wedding vows with the Reverend F. W. Bendy in 1949, and they shared a rewarding union until his passing; she was a valued member of Muddy Creek Baptist Church, where she served in a number of leadership roles, including chair of the program committee and vice president of the Pastor's Aide ministry; and WHEREAS, Through her compassion, dedication, and vibrant community spirit, Johnnie Bendy made a meaningful difference in countless lives, and her good works will continue to resonate in her community for years to come; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature, 2nd Called Session, hereby pay tribute to the life of Johnnie Ingram Bendy and extend sincere sympathy to all those who mourn her passing; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for her family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Johnnie Ingram Bendy. Hughes Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 189 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on July 29, 2013. Chief Clerk of the House