
Beyond his professional accomplishments, what really stands out about Byron are his immeasurable civic contributions, including his regular participation in a variety of service projects over the years, leadership roles in professional and local associations, and as an active Rotarian and former president of the Bellaire/Southwest Houston Rotary Club. All of which standing alone are commendable, but have also benefited the City and Department and have made him that much more effective as police chief. Through his extensive engagement with the community, he has fostered and further solidified the truly special relationship we enjoy with our police, something that’s unique to Bellaire and that we can all be proud of.
To properly recognize and honor Byron and his wife, Linda, on the occasion of his retirement, the public is invited to join in a Farewell to the Chief on July 25, generously underwritten by The Buzz Magazines, The '401 Table and Tap, Escalante’s and the Rubenstein Family Foundation, with net proceeds benefiting the Bellaire Police and Fire Foundation. Then, on August 2, we’ll celebrate the swearing-in of Assistant Chief Onesimo “Mo” Lopez as our new police chief, with an installation ceremony and community reception. You won’t want to miss either of these momentous events.
I recently heard Byron remark that “police aren’t special people; they’re good people who do a special job.” Respectfully, I must disagree. Police are both special and good, and no one has embodied and demonstrated that better than he has these past 45 years. The people of Bellaire value and appreciate Chief Byron Holloway for his leadership, devotion to duty and personal sacrifice in the protection of others, by which he has exemplified the longstanding police tradition of service, honor and courage above self.
Byron and Linda, we wish you all the very best in your well-deserved retirement, and know that as part of our Bellaire family, you’ve always got a home here.