The November Brownwood Chamber of Commerce featured outgoing Representative Jim Keffer on Friday afternoon at the Brownwood Country Club. Several leaders within the community were present to offer farewell gifts and thank Keffer for his many years of service.

Nancy Byler, president of the Texas Retired Teacher Association, personally thanked Keffer for his work for Texas teachers. Keffer’s willingness to personally meet with visitors brought praise from Grace Hefner of the Brown County Republican Women. “His door was always open,” Hefner said, noting it was an uncommon characteristic for a State Representative.

Former Brownwood Mayor Bert Massey called Keffer, “One of the giants of the Texas House.”

As he addressed attendees of the luncheon, Keffer thanked former representative Bob Turner. “I was the first Republican out of this district, but I had tremendous mentors when I got to the House,” Keffer remembered. “Bob Turner called me in, and he said you’re going to work for rural Texas.”

“I was very fortunate to learn under those statesmen. Rural members have to work together.”

Keffer spoke positively of Brown County and the strides the community has made during his term. “A long time ago you had the fortitude and wisdom to work together, instead of building walls, y’all got together and I pray that will continue. I pray you will study Groner Pitts. You’ve done extremely well because you work together.”

Keffer has served District 60 in the Texas House of Representatives since 1997. He announced last year that he would not seek an 11th term and will be succeeded by Republican Mike Lang, who ran unopposed in the general election last week.

“Brown County will always be…” Keffer spoke, before becoming emotional. “I can’t even express how much I love you guys. I just pray ya’ll continue to work together.”

“God Bless you,” Keffer finished. “And God Bless Texas.”

Pictured is former Representative Bob Turner with outgoing Representative Jim Keffer.