TITLE: In memory of Chad Rayshawn Bowden of Houston.

SUMMARY: In memory of Chad Rayshawn Bowden of Houston.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The untimely passing of Chad Rayshawn Bowden of Houston on March 7, 2013, at the age of 30, has brought great sorrow to his family and friends; and WHEREAS, Chad Bowden was born in Pasadena on July 20, 1982, to Charles and Gwendolyn Bowden; after graduating from Furr High School, he went on to earn a bachelor's degree from Prairie View A&M University, where he was twice named to the dean's list, and a master's degree in education with a certification in mid-management from Lamar University; and WHEREAS, While working at a printing company for a law firm, Mr. Bowden explained a problem so well to a colleague that he was asked if he had ever considered teaching; this event inspired him to pursue a career in education, which began in the Houston Independent School District with two years at Francis Scott Key Middle School; he then became a physical education teacher at Pleasantville Elementary, where many students affectionately referred to him as "Coach B"; and WHEREAS, A devout Christian from an early age, Mr. Bowden sang in the youth choir and served on the usher board at Lane Tabernacle CME Church; he later joined Christian Tabernacle and served as a teacher of the church's open Bible study; and WHEREAS, Mr. Bowden benefited his community as a volunteer at the Methodist Hospital as well as at numerous church and school events; in addition, he conducted basketball camps and served as a mentor for local youths; and WHEREAS, Although Chad Bowden's journey on this earth ended far too soon, memories of his kindness, compassion, and generosity will be forever treasured by all those who had the good fortune to know him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Chad Rayshawn Bowden and extend sincere condolences to the members of his family: to his parents, Charles and Gwen Bowden; to his grandparents, Willie and Mariah Bowden; to his aunts, Patricia Howard and Deborah Sanders; to his uncles, Willie Earl Bowden and his wife, Gayle, Gerald Bowden, Craig Bowden, and Tilford Sanders; to his godparents, Kenneth and Marsha Short; and to his other relatives 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 Chad Bowden. Dutton Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1297 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on April 17, 2013. Chief Clerk of the House