81R6620 JGH-D
By: McClendon H.R. No. 375
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Reverend I. V. Tolbert retired in 2007 from
Emmanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in San Antonio after 15
years as its pastor, closing out an exceptional career in the
ministry that spanned a half-century; and
WHEREAS, Born in Marland, Oklahoma, Reverend Tolbert earned a
bachelor's degree from Wilberforce University, a master's degree in
theology from Payne Theological Seminary, and a master's degree in
counseling from the University of Northern Colorado; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Tolbert was a member of the U.S. Air Force for
25 years and served as senior chaplain of the 12th Flying Training
Wing, command chaplain of the 1100 Air Base Wing, and national
chaplain of the USAF Civil Air Patrol; in addition to assignments in
Texas, Washington, D.C., and Alabama, he saw duty in Vietnam and
Germany; and
WHEREAS, Over the course of his distinguished military
career, Chaplain Colonel Tolbert was recognized with the Legion of
Merit, the Bronze Star, and the Vietnam Service Medal; and
WHEREAS, Reverend Tolbert pastored congregations in Iowa and
Michigan before coming to Emmanuel A.M.E. in 1992; under his
guidance, the church prospered; it paid off a 30-year mortgage in
just 12 years and was able to purchase additional land adjacent to
its original property; a highlight of Reverend Tolbert's tenure
took place on June 19, 2005, with the dedication of a $2.2 million
chapel that accommodates 800 worshippers; and
WHEREAS, A member of religious organizations such as the
National Chaplains Association and the San Antonio Council of
Churches, this renowned spiritual leader further contributed to his
profession as president of the Southwest Texas Conference Trustees
of the 10th Episcopal District of the A.M.E. Church; his work in the
community included service as chairman of BEAT AIDS, which focuses
on the prevention and treatment of this deadly disease in the San
Antonio area; and
WHEREAS, In the course of 51 years as a minister, Reverend
Tolbert gave generously of his time and talents in order to benefit
his church, his nation, and the communities in which he worked, and
in so doing he earned the respect and admiration of all who know
him; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby congratulate the Reverend I. V. Tolbert on his
retirement as pastor of Emmanuel A.M.E Church and extend to him best
wishes for continued success and happiness; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Reverend Tolbert as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.