Photo Courtesy Tommy Williams

After a decade of serving the Texas Senate and more than 15 years with the state Legislature, Sen. Tommy Williams, R-The Woodlands, announced Oct. 3 he will not be returning for the 2015 legislative session.

"After careful consideration, Marsha and I recently decided it was time to turn the page to a new chapter in our life," Williams said. "I have enjoyed every minute of my service to the people of Southeast Texas. Marsha and I are looking forward to concentrating on new opportunities and spending more time with our families and grandkids during this next chapter. I am especially grateful for the continued blessings of good health, a loving family and business success."

Williams will make a final decision after meeting with Gov. Rick Perry and Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst, according to a news release.

"Any success I have enjoyed throughout my legislative service has been because of the tremendous support from my legislative and committee staffs," he said. "I especially appreciate Lt. Gov. Dewhurst's strong, conservative leadership and the opportunities he has given me to serve not only the people of Southeast Texas, but the entire State of Texas."

Williams served on the Texas House of Representatives for five years before being elected to the state Senate in November 2002. Re-elected to the position in 2004, 2008 and 2012, he served as chairman of the Senate Finance Committee during the 2013 legislative session, and previously served as chairman of the Senate's Transportation and Homeland Security Committee and the Senate's Administration Committee.

A certified public accountant, Williams described shaping the state's 2014-15 budget as the highlight of his legislative career. He expressed his gratitude to voters during a meeting with Rotary Club members earlier this week in Beaumont.

"I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for the chance to represent Southeast Texas in the Legislature," he said. "It is a great honor. You have placed a tremendous amount of trust and confidence in me. After faith and family, nothing has meant more than the privilege and honor to represent you in Austin."

Williams' office chose not to comment on any future positions or plans the senator may be considering.

"We are not responding to speculation about future opportunities, said Gary Scharrer, communications director for Williams. "There are no firm plans."