SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 213
In Memory
of
Elsa Gonzalez Laurel
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and
commemorates the life of Elsa Gonzalez Laurel, who died February
5, 2019, at the age of 90; and
WHEREAS, Born in Laredo, Elsa Laurel was a direct
descendant of Tomas Sanchez, the city's founder, and she grew up
in the historic Benavides-Herrera house; she earned her high
school degree at the young age of 15, and she was later crowned
the first Miss Laredo in 1948; and
WHEREAS, In 1951, she married the late Oscar M. Laurel, and
she supported him through his career in local and state politics
while giving generously of her time to many charitable and
cultural organizations; the couple relocated to Washington,
D.C., when Mr. Laurel was appointed to serve in President Lyndon
B. Johnson's administration, and Mrs. Laurel soon became known
for hosting legendary parties that brought South Texas flair to
her northern neighbors; and
WHEREAS, After Mr. and Mrs. Laurel left Washington, she
traveled the world, spent time at the ranch, and supported their
children, Elsa Laurel Nicholson and Oscar M. Laurel Jr., through
their college years; above all, she cherished time spent with
family, and her five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren
enriched her life immeasurably; and
WHEREAS, A woman of great dignity, kindness, and charm,
Elsa Laurel was beloved by many, and she will long be remembered
with respect and admiration by all who were privileged to share
in her life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Elsa G. Laurel; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
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 Elsa Laurel.
Zaffirini
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on February 19, 2019,
by a rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate