86R6868 CJM-D
By: Clardy H.R. No. 47
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Memories of a life filled with joyful times and
meaningful accomplishments remain to comfort the family and friends
of Jack Raymond Stone, who passed away on August 13, 2017, at the
age of 86; and
WHEREAS, Jack Stone was born to Marshall and Jewell Stone on
September 8, 1930, in Nacogdoches; he graduated from both
Nacogdoches High School and Stephen F. Austin State University with
honors and served in the United States military; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Stone enjoyed a successful career in banking,
and he served the First State Bank of Wells as president; he also
chaired the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, and he helped the
Texas State Railroad's "iron horse" become a nationally recognized
tourist attraction; at the age of 60, he moved to Montana, where he
embarked on a second career as an attorney and won a case before the
Montana Supreme Court; and
WHEREAS, A dedicated family man, Mr. Stone wed Shirley Bailey
on August 2, 1952, and the couple shared a rewarding marriage that
spanned nearly four decades; following Mrs. Stone's death in 1991,
Mr. Stone was fortunate enough to find love again with his second
wife, the former Sara Benchoff; he took great pride in his children,
Robin and Bryant, and his stepchildren, Ed and Sara, and with the
passing years, he was further blessed with a number of cherished
grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, In his leisure time, Mr. Stone could often be found
hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the outdoors; he received
numerous awards for his contributions to his community, and he
published an autobiography, Every Man Dies, Not Every Man Lives, in
2010; and
WHEREAS, While the death of Jack Stone has brought
immeasurable sorrow to his family and friends, he has left behind a
legacy that will forever be treasured by all those who held him
dear; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Jack Raymond Stone and
extend sincere condolences to his loved ones; 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 Jack Stone.