The Honorable William Reynolds Archer, Jr.
Class of 1945

William Archer graduated from St. Thomas in 1945 as the Salutatorian of his senior class. He attended Rice University from 1945 - 1946 where he then moved to the University of Texas. He married Patricia Moore on November 21, 1953, and has five children: Reyn, Rich, Sharon, Lisa, and Barbara.

William was a member of the United States Air Force during the Korean War and also served as a Captain in the USAF Reserve from 1953 - 1964. He served as president of Uncle Johnny Mills, Inc. from 1953 until 1961. Archer also pursued careers in banking and law. He has also been the recipient of many civic and academic awards. From 1966 to 1970, Archer served in the Texas House of Representatives. In 1970, he was elected to the United States Congress 7th District of Texas as a member of the House Committee on Ways and Means. He was reelected to Congress in 1972 and 1974 by the highest vote percentage of any Republican candidate in the United States. Archer also served as the President of the Texas State Society of Washington D.C. from 1974 - 1975.

William R. Archer was inducted into the St. Thomas Hall of Honor on February 12, 1976.