SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 7
In Memory
of
Opal Johnson Smith
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and
commemorates the life of Opal Johnson Smith, who died December
27, 2020, at the age of 86; and
WHEREAS, Born August 27, 1934, Opal Johnson was an esteemed
member of the Dallas community and a native of Nigton, Texas; she
graduated from high school at the young age of 15 and earned a
bachelor's degree in mathematics from Prairie View A&M
University before her 20th birthday; and
WHEREAS, Opal was an active member of the Dallas Prairie
View A&M University Alumni Chapter, and over the years, her
fund-raising prowess contributed greatly to the growth and
success of the university; she established the highly successful
Annual Athletic Scholarship Gala, and her work as co-chair for
the university's Capital Campaign led to more than $34 million in
funding; she was honored for her service and contributions to her
alma mater and the Prairie View A&M University Foundation in 2006
with the dedication of the Opal Johnson Smith Auditorium, and in
2003, she was inducted into the National Black College Hall of
Fame; and
WHEREAS, A highly respected educational leader, Opal
earned a master's degree from the University of
Wisconsin-Madison and enjoyed a 35-year career in the Texas
public education system; she amassed numerous awards for her
outstanding service as a teacher and an administrator, and she
retired as the director of alternative certification for the
Dallas Independent School District; and
WHEREAS, Through all things, Opal enjoyed the love and
support of her husband of 62 years, Joe Edward Smith, a fellow
Prairie View alumnus who shared her enthusiastic commitment to
supporting and promoting education; they were blessed with four
children, who they guided by loving spiritual example, and their
eight grandchildren were a source of great pride and joy for her;
and
WHEREAS, Opal Smith was a woman of great wisdom, kindness,
and generosity and was beloved by many, and her proud legacy of
service will continue to have an impact on the lives of Texas
citizens for years to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th
Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby extend sincere
condolences to the bereaved family of Opal Johnson Smith; 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 Opal Smith.
West
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on July 22, 2021, by a
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate