85R17689 BPG-D
By: Turner H.R. No. 1129
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Grand Prairie lost an esteemed member of the
community with the passing of Bobby Kenneth Steen on February 2,
2017, at the age of 85; and
WHEREAS, The son of Odessa and Isaac Steen, Bobby Steen was
born on November 15, 1931; he attended Dallas public schools and
later completed his GED through the Grand Prairie Independent
School District; coming of age during segregation, Mr. Steen
recognized the need for lodgings to serve African American
travelers; he was a 27-year-old with just a little construction
experience when he designed and built Steen's Motel in the Dalworth
community, which was founded by African Americans at the turn of the
previous century; over the years, he welcomed myriad guests to his
establishment, which featured a community kitchen and dining room,
and everyone from migrant workers to prominent entertainers enjoyed
his hospitality; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Steen developed such strong customer loyalty
that the motel continued to thrive even after integration enabled
African Americans to take advantage of more conveniently located
accommodations; in addition, he had guests who became long-term
residents and remained family friends after moving away; the motel
was designated a Grand Prairie Significant Landmark and received a
historic marker in 2007; and
WHEREAS, A devoted family man, Mr. Steen shared a fulfilling
relationship of 42 years with his wife, Gale, and he took great
pride in his six children, Bobby, Isaac, Glen, Darrell, Ali, and
Keyma, as well as seven grandchildren and seven
great-grandchildren; he was a valued member of the Faith Fellowship
Baptist Church; and
WHEREAS, Bobby Steen lived a full and productive life
surrounded by those he loved, and they will forever hold him close
in their hearts; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Bobby Kenneth Steen
and extend sincere condolences to his many 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 Bobby
Steen.