86R20689 BPG-D
By: Bucy H.R. No. 1281
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The 100th birthday of an esteemed Texan is truly
cause for celebration, and Esthermay Cornwell Johnston of Austin is
reaching that impressive milestone on May 13, 2019; and
WHEREAS, Born in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, in 1919, Esthermay
Johnston moved to Beaumont with her family during the Great
Depression, when she was 12 years old; she attended Stephen F.
Austin State University, and her election as "Miss Daisy Mae" led to
her first date with Everett Johnston; married in 1942, they became
the proud parents of a daughter, Mary Luretta, and they were later
blessed with two granddaughters, Virginia and Madeline; the couple
shared a rewarding marriage of 54 years before Mr. Johnston's
passing; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Johnston taught in public schools for three
decades, and she spent the majority of her career at Margaret B.
Henderson Elementary School in the Dallas Independent School
District, where she took a whole child approach to address the
comprehensive needs and long-term development of her students; and
WHEREAS, A woman of faith, Mrs. Johnston is a lifelong member
of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); she was the first
woman to be named elder emeritus at Rosemont Christian Church in
Dallas, and she was also named life elder at University Christian
Church in Austin, where she remains active in the congregation; and
WHEREAS, Esthermay Johnston is a source of wisdom and
inspiration, and she holds a special place in the hearts of all
those who are fortunate enough to know her; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas
Legislature hereby congratulate Esthermay Cornwell Johnston on the
joyous occasion of her 100th birthday and extend to her sincere best
wishes for continued happiness; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mrs. Johnston as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.