H.R. No. 978 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, Family and friends are mourning the loss of Lynne Ann Pennington of Arlington, who passed away on August 2, 2012, at the age of 60; and WHEREAS, Born in Ohio on October 27, 1951, to George and Nancy Stearns, Ms. Pennington fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a teacher by earning a degree in education from Lock Haven University in 1973; during that same year, she married her high school sweetheart, Adlai Pennington, and in time their family grew to include a beloved daughter and two cherished grandchildren; and WHEREAS, After moving to Texas in 1983, Ms. Pennington continued her teaching career at The Oakridge School in Arlington, where she remained a member of the faculty until her retirement in 2002; a dedicated educator who practiced her vocation with passion, she consistently encouraged her students to reach their highest potential; and WHEREAS, Ms. Pennington faced some very daunting challenges after being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2004; although the disease disrupted her travel and leisure activities, she inspired others by battling her illness with bravery and grace; despite the difficulties she encountered, she committed herself to helping others, and her efforts included the establishment of the Pay It Forward Foundation, to provide support services and to create a safety net for individuals in need; and WHEREAS, A devoted mother and grandmother, Ms. Pennington enjoyed playing in the swimming pool with her grandchildren, made award-winning quilts, and relished the company of friends and the taste of sushi rolls and miso soup; her zest for life was infectious and unquenchable; and WHEREAS, Lynne Pennington's days were rich in family, friends, and meaningful achievements, and she will forever be remembered with tenderness and affection by all who were privileged to know her; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Lynne Ann Pennington and extend sincere condolences to the members of her family: to her loving husband of 38 years, Adlai Pennington; to her daughter, Taylor Gray, and her husband, Blaine; to her grandchildren, Emma and Wyatt Gray; to her sister, Mary Jo Stearns; to her brother, Jeff Stearns, and his wife, Judy; and to her other relatives and many friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for her family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Lynne Ann Pennington. Patrick ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 978 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on March 27, 2013. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House