House Concurrent Resolution No. 28 honors the life and legacy of Autry Carl Stephens, a prominent figure in the Permian Basin's oil and gas industry, who passed away on August 16, 2024, at the age of 86. Born in De Leon, Texas, Stephens earned degrees in petroleum engineering from The University of Texas at Austin and served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He had a successful career that included roles at Humble Oil and First National Bank of Midland before founding Endeavor Energy Resources in 2000, which grew into a multibillion-dollar enterprise. Known for his mentorship and philanthropy, Stephens supported various community initiatives and was recognized with numerous awards for his contributions to the industry.
The resolution expresses condolences to Stephens' family, including his wife Linda, children Joe and Lyndal, and grandchildren, while acknowledging the impact he had on his community and the oil industry. It highlights his values of camaraderie, generosity, and dedication to his employees, as well as his commitment to improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure through his company's philanthropic efforts. The Texas Legislature unanimously adopted this resolution, ensuring that Stephens' memory and contributions will be remembered and cherished by those he left behind.