2025S0287-1 03/31/25
By: Eckhardt, et al. S.R. No. 356
SENATE RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and
commemorates the life of Carole Stewart Keeton, a highly esteemed
Texan and a pioneering public servant, who died on March 26,
2025, at the age of 85; and
WHEREAS, Born September 13, 1939, Carole Keeton was the
second child and only daughter of Madge Anna Stewart and W. Page
Keeton, legendary dean of The University of Texas School of Law;
enthusiastic and driven from an early age, Carole attended The
University of Texas in the early 1960s, which helped to lay the
foundation for her distinguished career of public service and a
lifelong dedication to her community and state; and
WHEREAS, Carole broke barriers in Texas politics and
government throughout her career, and in 1972, she became the
first woman elected president of the Austin Independent School
District Board of Trustees; she went on to become the first woman
to serve as mayor of Austin in 1977 and committed her efforts to
fostering the growth and development of the city, and she remains
the only woman to have held the office; and
WHEREAS, In 1994, Carole Keeton became the first woman
elected to the Texas Railroad Commission, and in 1998, she earned
the similar distinction of being the first woman elected Texas
Comptroller of Public Accounts; she served in this capacity from
1999 to 2007, during which time she demonstrated a robust
commitment to fiscal responsibility and good governance as well
as a dedication to economic transparency and a principle-driven
work ethic; and
WHEREAS, A powerful voice for Texans, Carole made an
impact that extended well beyond her official duties,
particularly on issues of education and government efficiency;
her influence resonated across party lines, and her snappy
delivery and personal aphorisms endeared her to many and served
to highlight her sharp wit and her keen insight into the
challenges faced by everyday Texans; and
WHEREAS, While her professional accomplishments were
remarkable, Carole found the greatest reward in her role as a
mother and grandmother; she raised her four sons with care and
devotion and instilled in them the value of hard work and the same
diligence and intrepidity that defined her civic service; she
treasured time spent with her grandchildren, who were a source of
much pride and joy to her, and she was a model of grace and
resilience to her loved ones; and
WHEREAS, A woman of strength, perseverance, and
generosity, Carole leaves behind a distinguished legacy of
service shaped by her notable achievements and her spirit of
determination; she will continue to be a source of inspiration to
others long into the future, and her memory will be dearly
cherished by her loving family members and by the many people who
were privileged to know her and to share in her life; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 89th
Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved
family of Carole Stewart Keeton; 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 Carole Keeton.