2023S0438-1 05/26/23
By: West S.R. No. 702
SENATE RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and
commemorates the life of Johnny Welton Self, who died December
21, 2022, at the age of 72; and
WHEREAS, Johnny Self was born on January 29, 1950, in
Zachary, Louisiana; a fiercely determined civic leader, he broke
through countless barriers and dedicated his career to serving
the residents of the Lone Star State; and
WHEREAS, After earning a degree in business management
from Southern University in 1972, John became the first Black
firefighter to serve with the Arlington Fire Department in 1973;
he bravely served the Arlington community while demonstrating
the unique courage and sound judgment of his profession with
pride; and
WHEREAS, After leaving the fire department, John worked
for the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts before
transitioning to a role with TXU Energy; a magnetic leader and
trailblazer, he was elected vice president of the TXU Energy
board and was the first Black man to serve in the role; and
WHEREAS, John acted as a government advisor with TXU
Energy and Oncor Electric Delivery and worked closely with many
state officials and political leaders throughout his career; his
unflagging optimism and commitment to serving the public
established him as a widely respected and popular figure at the
Texas Capitol, and he continued to serve as a political
consultant after his retirement from the energy sector; and
WHEREAS, John was a devoted parishioner of Mount Olive
Baptist Church, where he served as an usher, Sunday school
teacher, deacon, and executive board member; he was married to
the love of his life, Beatrice, for 49 years, and he cherished his
two children, Jeremy and Jarita, and his three grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, A man of courage, strength, and integrity,
Johnny's wisdom and generous spirit enriched the lives of many,
and his memory will be forever treasured by his loved ones and
friends and by all who were privileged to share in his life; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 88th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Johnny Welton Self; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for
his 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 Johnny Self.