In memory of Carlton Carl.

89(R) SR 478 - Enrolled version - Bill Text

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 478

In Memory

of

Carlton Carl

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas honors and

commemorates the life of Carlton Carl, who died March 25, 2025,

at the age of 79; and

WHEREAS, An exemplary citizen and Native Texan, Carlton

Carl was born in Houston on September 20, 1945; he developed a

passion for journalism and a lifelong friendship with the famed

writer Molly Ivins from a young age, and he attended Columbia

University, where he earned a bachelor's degree and also a

master's degree from its prestigious journalism school; and

WHEREAS, Carlton embarked on a career in politics as an

intern in the Texas Legislature, and he went on to become the

press secretary for Governor Preston Smith and to run political

campaigns for such Texas legends as Price Daniel Jr., Bob

Bullock, and Ann Richards; and

WHEREAS, In 1983, he moved to Washington, D.C., to serve as

press secretary for United States House Representative John

Bryant of the Dallas area, and he later became a formidable

lobbyist and champion for consumers' and workers' rights during

his tenure as vice president of communications, policy, and

strategy with the Association of Trial Lawyers of America; and

WHEREAS, Carlton returned to his home state after

purchasing many parcels of land comprising the small town of

Martindale in the early 2000s; with the help of friends, family,

area residents, and numerous craftspeople, he achieved his

vision of revitalizing the town into a charming home for many

local businesses and friendly neighbors; while managing his

community real estate venture, he also returned to the journalism

profession and served for two years as chief executive officer

and publisher of the
Texas Observer
before transitioning to serve

on the board of the magazine's parent organization and as a

proofreader, a role which he fulfilled until his passing; and

WHEREAS, Carlton was a passionate advocate, a generous

philanthropist, and a voracious reader and history enthusiast

who cherished time spent with his friends and family, and he

found great reward in supporting them in their many interests and

pursuits; and

WHEREAS, A treasured Texan and an esteemed journalist,

Carlton inspired countless individuals through his tireless

commitment to his activism and his community, and he will long be

remembered with admiration and appreciation by all who were

privileged to share in his 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 Carlton Carl; 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 Carlton Carl.

Eckhardt

________________________________

President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the

above Resolution was adopted by

the Senate on June 1, 2025, by a

rising vote.

________________________________

Secretary of the Senate

________________________________

Member, Texas Senate