2023S0199-1 02/24/23
By: West S.R. No. 235
SENATE RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to pay
tribute to Luther Vernon Francis on the joyous occasion of his
100th birthday, which is being celebrated on February 25, 2023,
in Prairie View; and
WHEREAS, Born on February 24, 1923, in Paris, Texas,
Luther Vernon Francis is an exemplary citizen and an accomplished
gentleman and scholar; a beloved and respected member of his
Prairie View community, Luther is admired for his many notable
achievements as well as for his charming wit, his impeccable
sense of style, and his generous and gracious spirit; and
WHEREAS, A gifted and determined individual, Luther
graduated salutatorian of his high school class and went on to
serve in the Civilian Conservation Corps and in the United States
Army, during which time he developed his skill as a land surveyor
and enrolled as a student at Prairie View College; and
WHEREAS, After earning his master's degree, Luther was
hired as a professor at Prairie View A&M College and began a long
and rewarding career at the school; he became a highly esteemed
faculty member and a trusted administrator, and he served the
institution in various leadership roles over the years,
including as a department head, facility director, and business
manager; and
WHEREAS, In addition to serving as an educator, Luther
learned to fly airplanes and obtained a pilot license; his
experience as a land surveyor and his familiarity with the local
terrain were an asset to him during many of his flights, as he
occasionally needed to pilot his plane into landing in the dark
without the benefit of lights; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his life, Luther has met both
challenges and opportunities with strength and virtue; he has
been privileged to witness historic events and achievements that
many people only read about in history books, and there is much to
be learned from the wisdom he has gained; a 100th birthday is
truly a milestone deserving of recognition, and it is indeed
fitting that his loved ones gather to express their appreciation
and affection and to celebrate this momentous occasion; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th
Legislature, hereby recognize Luther Vernon Francis as a
treasured citizen of the Lone Star State and extend to him
congratulations on his 100th birthday and best wishes for a
memorable birthday celebration; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.