SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 243
In Memory
of
Olen Underwood
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and
commemorates the life of the Honorable Olen Underwood, a
cherished member of the Montgomery County community who died
February 28, 2025, at the age of 82; and
WHEREAS, Born May 25, 1942, Olen Underwood was an esteemed
Texan who pursued excellence in all his endeavors and improved
the lives of many through his decades of distinguished public
service; and
WHEREAS, A talented athlete, he played defensive end for
The University of Texas at Austin and helped the Longhorns claim
the 1963 national championship and a victory in the 1965 Orange
Bowl; he was selected by the New York Giants in the 1965 National
Football League draft, and he went on to play for the Houston
Oilers from 1966 to 1969; while managing his obligations as a
professional football player, he also earned a law degree from
the University of Houston; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Underwood led a rewarding career as a lawyer
in the Houston area, and in 1981, he was appointed judge of
Montgomery County's newly created 284th District Court, where he
set lasting standards for judicial diligence during his six
terms; in 1996, he was appointed to preside over the Second
Administrative Judicial Region of Texas, and he guided the court
with fairness and impartiality until 2022; and
WHEREAS, Led by a conviction to assist troubled youth in
Montgomery County, in 1993 Judge Underwood established the
Student Transition and Recovery Program to connect at-risk
middle school students with caring mentors; the county honored
his work and contributions to the community by establishing the
Olen Underwood Juvenile Justice Center; and
WHEREAS, Olen Underwood inspired his friends and loved
ones through his devotion to his faith, his family, and his
fellow citizens; he was beloved by many, and Texans will continue
to benefit from his legacy of public service long into the
future; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of the Honorable Olen Underwood; 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 Olen Underwood.
Creighton
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on March 12, 2025, by
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate