I am Thurman Bill Bartie, a lifelong resident of Port Arthur, Texas. My life has been shaped by community, faith, and a commitment to public service. I graduated from Lincoln High School and went on to study Political Science at Prairie View A and M University, where I performed as a featured Male Soloist with the A Capella Choir. I later earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science at Lamar University and studied Mortuary Science at the Commonwealth College of Mortuary Science in Houston; resulting in I becoming a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer. Additionally, I matriculated at Tennessee Temple University Baptist Seminary and earned a Master of Ministry Degree. I have served as Funeral Director and Embalmer at Hannah Funeral Home, Inc of Port Arthur, Texas and as Pastor of the First Sixth-Street Baptist Church for three years.

Public service has guided my path from the start. In 1994 I was elected the first African American Justice of the Peace for Precinct 8, Port Arthur - Jefferson County, Texas. I worked to improve education and serve my community in the capacity of Justice of the Peace. In 2019 the people of Port Arthur elected me Mayor, and I served two terms, leading the city through hurricanes, floods, economic shifts, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Those experiences taught me that leadership is not about titles—it is about trust, listening, and showing up for people when they need you most !

Now I am running for the United States House of Representatives for Congressional District 14 (TX). My objective is to bring, People Over Politics to our nations capital, Washington D.C.. I believe that the people of Southeast Texas deserve a representative who listens, works across the aisle, and puts the needs of families and communities first.

I am a proud parent and grandparent, and my dedication to public service is inspired by the example of my late parents, Wilson Roy and Joyce “Lady Mae” Roy. Their lessons in service, perseverance, and dignity guide me every day as I continue this journey to represent District 14 (TX) in Congress.