SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 479 In Memory of Mason Nelson WHEREAS, Family and friends suffered an unimaginable loss with the tragic passing of Mason Anthony Nelson of Galveston on September 2, 2022, at the age of 14; and WHEREAS, Born on April 14, 2008, in San Antonio, Mason Nelson was the cherished son of Reid Allen and Melissa Vaught Nelson and the brother of four siblings, Ellie, Parker, Cody, and Peighton; he spent the first nine years of his life in Boerne, before moving to Galveston in 2017; last May, he graduated from Trinity Episcopal School, and at the time of his death, he had recently started his freshman year at Ball High School; and WHEREAS, A hardworking and driven young athlete, Mason dedicated himself to practicing baseball and training to live up to his full potential; he earned the admiration of his coaches and teammates, and he enjoyed the camaraderie of a tight-knit circle of friends, who were like brothers and sisters to him; in addition, he formed many close relationships at Camp Longhorn, and he left a profound impression on countless other people over the course of his life; in all his endeavors, he derived much comfort and strength from his faith, and his devotion to his beliefs was an inspiration to those around him; and WHEREAS, Although the passing of Mason Nelson brings immeasurable pain and sorrow, his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to share in his love and friendship; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the life of Mason Anthony Nelson and extend deepest condolences to the members of his family: to his parents, Reid Allen Nelson and Melissa Vaught Nelson; to his siblings, Ellie Phillips, Parker Nelson, Cody Phillips, and Peighton Nelson; to his grandparents, Sally Nelson and Alvin and Nancy Vaught; to his uncles and aunts, Eric Nelson and his wife, Stephanie, Jeremy Nelson, John Vaught and his wife, Nancy, Mark Vaught and his wife, Lauren, and Melissa Nelson Davis and her husband, Ricky; to his numerous great-uncles, great-aunts, and cousins; and to his other relatives and friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this Resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Mason Anthony Nelson. Middleton ________________________________ President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 27, 2023, by a rising vote. ________________________________ Secretary of the Senate ________________________________ Member, Texas Senate