CORNELIUS “CONNIE” M. ENGLISH JR.

1943-2017

When Connie English wanted to get people's attention to start a meeting, he would shout "All Aboard!", a product of his many years in the railroad industry.

That wasn't just about trains. It was a larger statement of solidarity with all working people, and it offers an insight into Brother English's nature as a union leader. He took care of the business of the Sheet Metal Air Rail Transportation (SMART) Union as ably as anyone ever has, but he believed his mission spread far and wide beyond his obligation to SMART.

English became a leader at the state level and an essential holder of institutional memory who mentored countless union members on what it means to advocate for all working families. His approach was most evident in the United Labor Legislative Committee, where his extraordinarily varied connections and broad bipartisan respect helped the Texas AFL-CIO legislative program through some of its most sensitive moments. That work was so respected that he was widely viewed, for a quarter-century, as "the conscience of ULLCO." In every respect, Connie English knew how to wage friendship.

A third-generation railroad worker and father of a fourth-generation one, English graduated from San Antonio's Highlands High School in 1962, having already begun service in the Army National Guard. He entered the Army and was stationed in Fort Polk, Louisiana, at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin, and, from 1962 to 1965, in Okinawa, Japan.

Upon his return to San Antonio, English went to work for Southern Pacific Transport Co. After seven years, he moved on to Southern Pacific Railroad, first as a brakeman, then as a conductor. In 1996, the company was bought out by Union Pacific. English became an expert on safety matters and the go-to person on grievances in what was then the United Transportation Union. His move into legislative advocacy and a position on the Texas AFL-CIO Executive Board was a natural progression that recognized his leadership skills.

When Connie English celebrated his 50th anniversary of marriage to Donna English with a renewal of vows in San Antonio, scores of union Brothers and Sisters celebrated with him. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have carried on a tradition of solidarity that runs in all directions. All aboard!!!