81R6616 JGH-D
By: McClendon H.R. No. 422
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, A full and generous life came to an end with the
passing of Clarence Bryant of San Antonio, who died on February 26,
2008, at the age of 81; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Bryant was born on April 12, 1926, and grew up in
a small community outside of Houston; at the age of 17, he joined
his cousin in San Antonio in order to look for employment; and
WHEREAS, Through hard work and initiative, Mr. Bryant became
a successful entrepreneur; in 1963, he and his friend and business
partner, Bennie Norris, opened an automobile repair shop; and
WHEREAS, The success of that venture led to Mr. Bryant's
creation of other businesses, including a car wash and the first
African American-owned coin-operated laundry on the east side of
San Antonio; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Bryant became a leader in his community,
providing jobs to many young people over the years and strongly
encouraging them to pursue an education; and
WHEREAS, Through his perseverance and unwavering commitment
to customer service, Clarence Bryant saw his dream of business
ownership fulfilled several times over; although this esteemed
gentleman is deeply missed, the memory of his good humor and
invaluable contributions to his community will long endure with all
who knew him; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Clarence Bryant and
extend sincere condolences to the members of his family: to his
wife, Cindy; to his son, Derek Charles Bryant; to his sisters, Ora
Lee McFarlane and Lillian Garcia; 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 Clarence
Bryant.