In memory of Theodore August Swenson Jr. of Bullard.
Senate Resolution 257 is a memorial resolution honoring the life of Theodore August Swenson Jr. of Bullard, Texas, who died on January 19, 2025, at age 92. The resolution recounts his early life in Tyler, education at Kemper Military School and the University of Houston, service in the U.S. Navy as an electronics technician aboard the USS Orion, and his later career as a chemist and manager at Dow Chemical before retiring in 1990.
The resolution also highlights his family life, including his marriage to Esther Leigh, later marriage to Martha Smith, his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, and extended family. It notes his interests in golf, hunting, fishing, travel, and time spent at a cabin in Colorado, as well as his long-standing involvement in Marvin Methodist Church and Emerald Bay Community Church. The Senate concludes by extending condolences and directing that an official copy be prepared for his family, with the chamber adjourning in his memory.
SR 257 does not change state law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its legal effect is ceremonial and commemorative: it records the Texas Senate’s tribute to Mr. Swenson, extends condolences to his family, and directs preparation of an official copy for the family and an adjournment in his memory. The resolution affects no statutes or regulated parties beyond the formal actions of the Senate itself.
The sentiment surrounding SR 257 is uniformly respectful and sympathetic. The resolution was adopted by a rising vote, indicating broad, noncontroversial support for honoring Mr. Swenson’s life and service. The tone is celebratory of his military service, career, family, faith, and community ties, with no evidence of opposition or debate in the available record.
There are no notable points of contention in the available materials. Because this is a memorial resolution, it appears to have been treated as a routine expression of condolence and recognition rather than a policy measure. No committee discussion, recorded opposition, or divided vote is provided, and the resolution passed by rising vote without apparent controversy.