H.R. No. 1498 is a resolution honoring the life and legacy of Godfrey Vela, who passed away on May 28, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Falfurrias, Texas, on February 23, 1944, Vela served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1969. He married Rosie Villarreal in 1970, and together they raised three children and welcomed four grandchildren. Vela pursued higher education while working full-time, earning a bachelor's degree in political science and an MBA. He had a successful career with U.S. Steel and Exxon and was actively involved in various community and veterans' organizations.

The resolution expresses the Texas House of Representatives' condolences to Vela's family and friends, recognizing his contributions to his community and his dedication to helping others. It highlights his roles as a veterans service officer, a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans, and a youth sports coach. The House adopted the resolution on June 2, 2025, and it calls for an official copy to be prepared for Vela's family, ensuring that his memory is honored as the House adjourns.