SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 595
In Memory
of
Julia Joseph Sawyer
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the
citizens of Austin in mourning the loss of Julia Joseph Sawyer,
who died March 30, 2009; and
WHEREAS, Born in Austin to Joseph Joseph and Sophie
Daywood, Julia Joseph lived her life to the fullest and was a
source of strength to others; and
WHEREAS, At an early age, Julia showed her
entrepreneurship; when she was 18 years old, she and her brother
opened Dixie Cream Donuts; she delivered donuts by driving a
truck around Austin, and she soon became known as the "Donut
Girl"; and
WHEREAS, Julia married Charles D. Sawyer, Jr., and after
World War II, the couple opened and operated Sonny's Place, also
called the "rock tavern," on Rosewood Avenue in Austin's
Eastside; and
WHEREAS, Charles passed away in July of 1953, and Julia
dedicated her life to her work as a homemaker and to raising her
three children; she was also a successful business woman who
worked hard in her tavern and encouraged others to open their own
businesses; and
WHEREAS, A devout Catholic, Julia was a founder and
benefactor of Our Lady's Maronite Parish, where she was a trustee
and a member of the Altar Society; at the National Maronite
Convention in San Diego in 2005, she was awarded the Gold
Massabki Award for her work in the Diocese of Our Lady of Lebanon;
she was a permanent member of the Order of Saint Sharbel; and
WHEREAS, An exemplary lady, Julia was respected in the
community for her many accomplishments; known for her compassion
and generosity, Julia gave unselfishly of her time and energy to
others, and her wisdom, warmth, and valued counsel will not be
forgotten by those who knew her; and
WHEREAS, Julia Sawyer was beloved by her family and
friends, and she leaves behind memories that will be deeply
treasured by all who were privileged to share in her life; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Julia Joseph Sawyer; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
the members of her 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 Julia Joseph Sawyer.
Watson
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on April 7, 2009, by a
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate