Former Texas Supreme Court Justice William Lockhart Garwood passed away last Thursday, July 14th. In 1979, Governor Bill Clements appointed Justice Garwood as the first Republican Texas Supreme Court Justice since Reconstruction. After serving on the Texas Supreme Court, he was appointed by President Ronald Reagan to the United States Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit and served for 30 years. Justice Garwood was considered to have one of the finest legal minds in the State of Texas and was unwavering in his dedication to the Constitution and the Rule of Law.

Said State Chairman Steve Munisteri on the passing of Justice Garwood: "I was privileged to have the opportunity to meet Justice Garwood on several occasions, including arranging for him to speak to a conservative conference. I found him to be a true Texas gentleman and a legal scholar. Justice Garwood came from a family of conservative activists, and his mother Ellen Garwood was a frequent and generous benefactor of the Republican Party and the conservative movement. The Garwood family were outstanding Texans, solid Republicans, and had a special place in my heart. Thus, I was very saddened to learn of the passing of Justice Garwood. He leaves behind a tremendous legacy and he will be sorely missed."

Obituary and memorial guestbook available online by clicking here