TITLE: In memory of Mayor Tommy Wayne Clayton of Springtown.

SUMMARY: In memory of Mayor Tommy Wayne Clayton of Springtown.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The city of Springtown lost a highly regarded public servant with the passing of Mayor Tommy Wayne Clayton on July 11, 2018, at the age of 56; and WHEREAS, Tom Clayton was born in Amarillo on July 23, 1961, to Clarence and Brigitte Clayton; after serving in the U.S. Air Force, he was honorably discharged in 1981 for injuries received in the line of duty; he earned a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he worked with the Nevada Republican Party, and he went on to earn a master's degree in public administration and urban development from The University of Texas; during that time, he also devoted himself to caring for his son, Thomas, whom he raised as a single parent; and WHEREAS, A resident of Springtown since 1999, Mr. Clayton served on the city council for three terms, and he was a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Sign Ordinance Committee, the Impact Fee Advisory Board, and the Mayor's Task Force on Communications; in 2015, he was elected mayor, and local voters later returned him to office for a second term; and WHEREAS, Among his many achievements as mayor, Mr. Clayton helped bring high-speed internet service to the city, improved access to ambulance services, and oversaw the development and construction of the Lake Street bridge; moreover, he led the effort to have Springtown Tabernacle recognized as a state historic site and played a vital role in the building of the Springtown Monument Welcome Sign; and WHEREAS, Mr. Clayton further benefited his community as a member of the Springtown Area Chamber of Commerce, the Springtown Optimist Club, and the Springtown Church of Christ; he also served as secretary and treasurer of the Springtown Farmers' Market and belonged to the Texas Municipal League Legislative Council; during the holidays, he played Santa Claus at the Springtown Christmas on the Square; and WHEREAS, Tom Clayton led a rich and purposeful life, and though he was taken much too soon, he leaves behind a record of civic engagement that will continue to inspire all those who knew and loved him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Tommy Wayne Clayton and extend sincere condolences to the members of his family and to his 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 Tommy Wayne Clayton. King of Parker Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 505 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on February 25, 2019. Chief Clerk of the House