On October 8, 1998, Commissioner Carolyn Marie Garrett, age 48, was tragically killed in an auto-pedestrian accident in Houston, Texas, while on her way to the University of Houston where she was pursuing a degree in Psychology. Ms. Garrett was to graduate with honors from the university in December of this year and had plans to be a Christian Counselor.
Ms. Garret spent most of her life committed to bettering the lives of Texans who are blind. On January 13, 1994, Ms. Garrett was appointed by the Governor of Texas as a member of the Texas Commission for the Blind Governing Board, where she was charged with carrying out the intent and spirit of the Texas Legislature as expressed in the enabling legislation and laws governing the programs of the Commission. Her term as a member of the Governing Board was due to expire in February 1999.
In addition to serving on the Commission's Board, Ms. Garrett devoted her time to blindness organizations such as the American Council of the Blind, of which she was a very active member. She was especially interested in the education and independence of young children and adults who are blind and it was no secret that Ms. Garret was an exemplary role model through her own pursuance of a degree in Psychology and through her independence.
Ms. Garret will always be remembered for her years of service to the State of Texas as a member of the Texas Commission for the Blind Governing Board, and for her lifelong commitment to ensuring that individuals who are blind be given every opportunity to live independently in a sighted world and to be the best individuals possible.
Ms. Garrett is survived by her husband of 28 years, Michael Garrett, and three daughters, Lisa, Tiffany, and Denay.
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