SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 77
	In Memory
	of
	Stephen Rice
	WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the
	citizens of Austin in mourning the loss of Stephen Rice, a
	beloved resident who died July 16, 2017, at the age of 46; and
	WHEREAS, Stephen Rice was born on August 11, 1970, in
	Tyler, Texas; he attended Bullard High School, and he continued
	his academic studies at Southwest Texas State University; and
	WHEREAS, Stephen was a passionate advocate for equal
	rights, and for nearly 25 years, he volunteered at a variety of
	organizations serving LGBTQ citizens; he was the host of OutCast,
	a weekly KOOP radio show on Austin's KUT 90.5 FM; the show gave
	voice to the LGBTQ community, and he frequently spoke out against
	discriminatory policies; and
	WHEREAS, Stephen was known for his quick wit and
	charismatic personality; he found great joy in simple pleasures,
	such as enjoying his favorite drink, talking with strangers while
	walking his dogs, or sharing a home-cooked meal with Mark Erwin,
	his devoted husband of 22 years; and
	WHEREAS, A tireless advocate and an admired public figure,
	Stephen Rice inspired those who knew him by his compassion, his
	political savvy, and his unfailing belief in equal treatment for
	all citizens; he was a true Austin gentleman, and he will long be
	remembered with respect and affection by all who were privileged
	to share in his life; now, therefore, be it
	RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th
	Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby extend sincere condolences
	to the bereaved family of Stephen Rice; 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 Stephen Rice.
	Watson
		________________________________
		President of the Senate
		I hereby certify that the
		above Resolution was adopted by
		the Senate on July 26, 2017, by a
		rising vote.
		________________________________
		Secretary of the Senate
		________________________________
		Member, Texas Senate