TITLE: In memory of Joe Milton Pirtle of Belton.

SUMMARY: In memory of Joe Milton Pirtle of Belton.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, A rich and purposeful life drew to a close with the passing of Joe Milton Pirtle of Belton on May 12, 2019, at the age of 87; and WHEREAS, Joe Pirtle was born in Salado on September 20, 1931, to Paul and Gertie Pirtle, and he grew up with four siblings, Paul, Billie, Jamie, and Bob; he was a standout athlete and senior class president at Salado High School; and WHEREAS, Mr. Pirtle married Mary Nell Moore in 1952, and the couple shared 66 rewarding years together; he was the proud father to two daughters, Paula and Jane, and later in life, he was the beloved "Dedad" to six grandchildren, Travers, Jay, Casie, Adam, Bret, and Cole, and five great-grandchildren, Jack, Lily, June, Hazel Cate, and Eli; and WHEREAS, After graduating from college, Mr. Pirtle joined the Belton Independent School District as a science teacher and coach, leading the basketball team to a state championship; he went on to serve the district as an elementary school and junior high school principal, director of curriculum, assistant superintendent, and superintendent; he was a finalist for state Superintendent of the Year and was named Texas Administrator of the Month in June 1997; moreover, he was president of the board of directors for Education Service Center Region 12, which recognized him as Superintendent of the Year in 1994; he retired after 43 years with Belton ISD, and the district named an elementary school in his honor; and WHEREAS, A leader in his community, Mr. Pirtle was president of the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, and the United Way of Central Texas, and he further contributed his time to the local Crime Stoppers and Communities in Schools organizations; he received the Outstanding Citizen Award from the Belton Area Chamber and was named Lion of the Year, and he was also honored with the Special Olympics Distinguished Award; and WHEREAS, A devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and an admired and beloved educator, Joe Pirtle dedicated his life to the service of others, and he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate to know him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Joe Milton Pirtle 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 Joe Milton Pirtle. Shine Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1782 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on May 24, 2019. Chief Clerk of the House