TITLE: In memory of Robert Dean Smith.

SUMMARY: In memory of Robert Dean Smith.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Bastrop in mourning the loss of the Reverend Robert Dean Smith, who died June 11, 2013, at the age of 78; and WHEREAS, R. D. Smith was born on August 6, 1934, in Hope, Arkansas, to George and Lillie Mae Smith; he served the nation with distinction in the United States Air Force; he married his wife, Gwendolyn, in 1964, and the couple raised five children; and WHEREAS, After his military service, he attended the Tyler Barber College, and in 1966, he became a master barber; he later went to work with the Federal Bureau of Prisons in El Reno, Oklahoma, where he enjoyed a long and successful career; and WHEREAS, He entered the ministry in 1970 and served as pastor to several churches in Oklahoma before moving with his family to Bastrop, where he began his employment at the Bastrop Federal Correctional Institute and became pastor of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church; in 1987, he accepted the call to become pastor of Mount Rose Baptist Church, where he was much loved by the congregation and served with dedication for the remainder of his life; and WHEREAS, Reverend Smith was active in his community and served as chaplain for the Bastrop Police Department and as chairman of the board of the city's emergency food and shelter program; he regularly attended many city council meetings and National Night Out gatherings; and WHEREAS, A man of courage, strength, and integrity, he gave unselfishly to others, and his wisdom, warmth, and valued counsel will not be forgotten; and WHEREAS, He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, and he leaves behind memories that will be treasured forever by his family and countless friends; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 83rd Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of the Reverend Robert Dean Smith; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate, and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Reverend R. D. Smith. Watson President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on June 24, 2013, by a rising vote.