In memory of Godfrey Vela of Corpus Christi.

89(R) HR 1498 - Enrolled version - Bill Text

H.R. No. 1498

R E S O L U T I O N

WHEREAS, A life made rich through meaningful service drew to

a close with the passing of Godfrey Vela of Corpus Christi on

May 28, 2025, at the age of 81; and

WHEREAS, Born in Falfurrias on February 23, 1944, Godfrey

Vela grew up with the companionship of eight siblings; after

graduating from Falfurrias High School in 1963, he enrolled at

Texas A&I University; answering his nation's call to duty, he

joined the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War; he was honorably

discharged in 1969; and

WHEREAS, The following year, Mr. Vela married the former

Rosie Villarreal, and the couple shared a fulfilling union that

spanned five and a half decades; he took great pride in their three

children, Sonia, Susana, and Godfrey, and over the years, their

cherished family grew to include four grandchildren, Gregory,

Simone, Lily, and Godfrey; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Vela began taking night classes while working

full-time, and he earned a bachelor's degree in political science

from Texas A&I University in 1975 and an MBA from Corpus Christi

State University in 1980; he enjoyed a long and rewarding career

working for U.S. Steel and for Exxon, and he further benefited his

profession as president of the National Purchasing Management

Association; and

WHEREAS, Active in his community, Mr. Vela was on the

Selective Service Board in Nueces County and he was the veterans

service officer for Brooks County; he was also involved in the

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, and Veterans

Affairs; an avid baseball fan, he served as a T-ball and Pony League

coach for his son and his grandson; and

WHEREAS, Godfrey Vela was a man of great compassion who

remained engaged in the world throughout his life and who found joy

and inspiration in helping others; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 89th Texas

Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Godfrey Vela and

extend sincere condolences to his 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 House of

Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Godfrey

Vela.

Villalobos

______________________________

Speaker of the House

I certify that H.R. No. 1498 was adopted by the House on June

2, 2025, by a non-record vote.

______________________________

Chief Clerk of the House