H.R. No. 113
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The Highland Park community lost a beloved leader
with the passing of Leslie Long Melson on January 24, 2021, at the
age of 65; and
WHEREAS, Born in Hamilton, Ohio, on July 20, 1955, the former
Leslie Ann Long was the oldest child of Bill and Ann Long; "Peach"
helped nurture three younger brothers, David, Steve, and Jeff, as
the family relocated for her father's career, finally settling in
Dallas; and
WHEREAS, While studying art at Southern Methodist
University, she met the love of her life, Jim Melson, and they
married at Highland Park Presbyterian Church on August 19, 1978;
the couple were blessed with four children, Jed, Ann, Ellen, and
John, and while supporting them in their many activities,
Ms. Melson played a maternal role in the lives of many of their
friends as well; eventually, she welcomed into her treasured family
a daughter-in-law, Jennifer, and two sons-in-law, Robby and
Clayton, along with nine grandchildren, Jay, Will, Kyle, Cali Ann,
John, Charley, Reed, Cooper, and Carter; she encouraged them in all
their passions, and notably joined a son-in-law in cheering the Los
Angeles Dodgers on to the 2020 World Series title; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Melson was dedicated to the Highland Park
Independent School District and gave generously of her time and
talents to the PTA and the HP Education Foundation; for nearly a
decade, she served on the board of HPISD, and she was also a
presiding member of the board of HP Arts; in addition, she served
her alma mater as a trustee and as president of the Alumni
Association; a woman of deep faith, she was actively involved in
Highland Park Presbyterian Church as well; she cherished happy
times with her loved ones at Marita Ranch in East Texas and Amelia
Island in Florida, and her compassion for animals led her to adopt a
host of cats, dogs, and even baby goats; and
WHEREAS, Although Leslie Melson is greatly missed, the
passage of time will never diminish the joy and love she brought
into the lives of all who knew her, and they will forever treasure
their memories of her warmth, grace, and kindness; now, therefore,
be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas
Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Leslie Long Melson and
extend sincere sympathy to all who mourn her passing; and, be it
further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for her family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Leslie Long
Melson.
Meyer
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 113 was unanimously adopted by a
rising vote of the House on March 10, 2021.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House