TITLE: In memory of retired Lubbock firefighter Jay Wesley Watson.

SUMMARY: In memory of retired Lubbock firefighter Jay Wesley Watson.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Family, friends, and colleagues will forever treasure their memories of retired Lubbock firefighter Jay Wesley Watson, who passed away on July 8, 2017, at the age of 54; and WHEREAS, Born in Lubbock on September 8, 1962, Jay Watson was the son of K. Dencil and Kathryn Watson; a standout athlete at Frenship High School, he went on to study at Texas Tech University, and he remained a loyal supporter of his college alma mater throughout his life; and WHEREAS, In 1982, Mr. Watson was joined in matrimony to his childhood sweetheart, Jana, and they went on to share a rewarding marriage that spanned three and a half decades; over the years, their family grew to include two daughters, Kristen and Meagan, and three grandchildren, Carter, Tinsley, and Wesley; and WHEREAS, Mr. Watson began his career with Lubbock Fire Rescue in 1987; passionate about his work, he belonged to several local, state, and international firefighter organizations, and he played a key role in the department's Fill the Boot and Operation Warm: Coats for Kids initiatives; and WHEREAS, This accomplished professional served the Lubbock community with distinction for nearly three decades until, in 2015, a cancer diagnosis forced him to retire from the job he loved; although he was initially given less than a year to live, he survived well beyond that prediction, and he found great strength and inspiration in his faith, in the support and affection of his family, and in the camaraderie of the many friends and fellow first responders who rallied around him; and WHEREAS, Jay Watson was a devoted family man and a dedicated firefighter, and although his life ended far too soon, he leaves behind a record of service that his loved ones can remember with pride; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Jay Wesley Watson and extend heartfelt condolences to the members of his family: to his wife, Jana Watson; to his children, Kristen Andrus and her husband, David, and Meagan Watson; to his grandchildren, Carter, Tinsley, and Wesley Andrus; to his stepfather, Tommy Evans; to his brothers, Jimmy Watson and Mack Evans, and his stepsister, Mickie Prado; and to his other relatives and 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 Jay Watson. Burrows Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 48 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on August 15, 2017. Chief Clerk of the House