SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 96
In Memory
of
Robert Vance Elkins
and
Von Dean Rose Elkins
WHEREAS, Residents of Tuscola suffered a heartbreaking
loss on December 13, 2018, with the passing of Mayor Robert Vance
Elkins, 82, and his wife, Von Dean Rose Elkins, 80, two respected
and much-loved members of the community; and
WHEREAS, A native of Brownwood, Robert Elkins was born on
September 3, 1936, to Robert and Roxie Elkins; after graduating
from Brownwood High School and serving in the United States Naval
Reserve, he joined the United States Army and was assigned to the
Honor Guard in Washington, D.C., where he had the distinction of
being present at the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy; and
WHEREAS, Following his discharge, Mr. Elkins worked for 36
years for the Texas Department of Transportation, which
eventually promoted him to regional chief inspector; he served as
a consultant for a number of paving companies after retiring from
the department in 1994; his desire to make a positive difference
in the lives of his fellow citizens led him to serve as a member
of the city council from 2013 to 2016 and as mayor of Tuscola
since 2016; during his time in office, he earned the high regard
of his colleagues and constituents through his strong leadership,
his genial manner, and his endearing sense of humor; and
WHEREAS, The former Von Dean Rose was born on December 29,
1937, in Runnels County to Bonnie and Lottie Mae Rose; she
attended Morton High School, Lawn High School, and Draughon's
Business School in Abilene, before working for Master's
Manufacturing and Thornton's Department Store; she spent more
than three decades at First State Bank of Tuscola, where she was a
valued and beloved employee; and
WHEREAS, This esteemed couple were united in matrimony in
Tuscola on February 8, 1964, and they lived there for the
entirety of their 54 years of marriage; they raised two children,
Rhonda and Tony, and later welcomed into their family six
grandchildren, Demi, Dalton, Dillion, Ian, Colter, and Garrett,
and two great-grandchildren, Aden and Tate; Mr. and Mrs. Elkins
were further cherished by numerous friends and neighbors, who
admired them for the kindness and generosity with which they
treated everyone they encountered; and
WHEREAS, Deeply dedicated to their family and their
community, Robert and Von Dean Elkins were a blessing in the
lives of many, and they will forever hold a treasured place in the
hearts of those they have left behind; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th
Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the memory of Mayor Robert
Vance Elkins and Von Dean Rose Elkins of Tuscola and extend
sincere condolences to all who mourn their passing; and, be
it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be
prepared for their family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns
this day, it do so in memory of Robert and Von Dean Elkins.
Buckingham
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on January 30, 2019, by
a rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate