[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 76 (Tuesday, May 9, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E967]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                     HONORING A KNOX COUNTY LEADER

                                 ______


                           HON. HAROLD ROGERS

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 9, 1995

  Mr. ROGERS. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply saddened by the death of my good 
friend, Herman ``Vance'' Mills. My family and thousands of others 
throughout Knox County and Kentucky are devastated by this terrible and 
sudden loss.
  Our community has lost a topnotch businessman, an active church 
leader, an inspiring civic and community volunteer, a political leader, 
and a good Christian friend. He helped everyone he could and always was 
willing to sacrifice his time for others.
  Vance's businesses employed dozens of local people and his high-
energy, friendly style is what always stood out most.
  One of Knox County's most prominent citizens, he was a man who always 
was known for taking care of business. In 1992, Vance received the 
Daniel Boone Festival Award for Outstanding Citizen because of his 
outstanding work for our community.
  At 15, Vance started drilling wells alongside his father, Kail. In 
the 60's, Vance became a partner in a gas distributorship. He also 
owned gas stations, a rock quarry, a concrete company, a bank, and two 
hotels.
  Vance was a man who could see the future for Barbourville, Knox 
County and southern and eastern Kentucky. He also had the drive and 
resourcefulness to make his vision a reality. These improvements meant 
more jobs and a better economy for the region.
  Vance Mills was a great leader and a good man. He offered hope to 
many people in Knox County, and he will be sorely missed.


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