87S10788 JRI-D
	By: Murr	H.R. No. 26

	R E S O L U T I O N
	WHEREAS, The thousands of deaths caused by COVID-19 in Texas
	have created a tremendous void in families, communities, and
	workplaces throughout the state; among those who lost their lives
	in the pandemic was Barry Deckard, a dedicated and well-respected
	employee of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, who passed
	away on November 15, 2020, at the age of 52; and
	WHEREAS, Mr. Deckard worked at The University of Texas
	Medical Branch Correctional Managed Care facility at the Hodge Unit
	in Rusk and served as a mental health case manager in the
	developmental disabilities program; a man of deep faith, he was an
	active member of Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Nacogdoches; and
	WHEREAS, In all his endeavors, Mr. Deckard enjoyed the love
	and support of his wife, Kem, with whom he shared a rewarding
	marriage that spanned 30 years; he was the proud father of four
	children, Danielle, Casey, Courtney, and Steven, and he mentored
	numerous other young people while coaching his children's softball
	teams; an avid NASCAR fan, he also loved country and gospel music
	and enjoyed barbecuing, fishing, and other outdoor activities;
	highly respected by his coworkers, he was known for his kindness and
	loyalty, as well as his willingness to help others; and
	WHEREAS, Barry Deckard faithfully and ably performed his
	duties throughout his tenure with the Texas Department of Criminal
	Justice, and he will long be remembered with great admiration by all
	who were privileged to know him; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas
	Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby pay tribute to the life of
	Barry Deckard and extend deepest sympathy to his family, friends,
	and colleagues; 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 Barry
	Deckard.