[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 122 (Wednesday, July 26, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S10728]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  TRIBUTE TO THE LATE FRANCIS M. HIPP

  Mr. THURMOND. Mr. President, over the past 40 years, South Carolina 
has enjoyed tremendous economic growth, and has emerged as one of the 
Nation's leading centers for commerce and industry. Many people have 
had a role in this success, and I rise today to pay tribute to one 
person who made many contributions to our State's prosperity, Mr. 
Francis Moffett Hipp, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 
84.
  Mr. Hipp was recognized throughout South Carolina as both a community 
and a business leader. His father founded the Liberty Life Insurance 
Co., which Francis eventually took over and ran as its chairman. Under 
his direction, the company grew and diversified, even acquiring a chain 
of television stations, including one in Columbia, SC. The Liberty 
Corp., as it is now known, is one of our State's largest insurance 
companies, employing literally thousands of people and contributing an 
inestimable benefit to South Carolina and its economy.
  Because of his stature as a businessman, and his concern for the 
future of our State, Mr. Hipp also served as the chairman of both the 
South Carolina Development Board and the South Carolina Research 
Authority. Both these organizations have played important roles in 
expanding the Palmetto State business community, and during his tenure 
at those agencies, Mr. Hipp's dedication and vision helped greatly to 
develop industry in our State. Thanks to the concerted efforts of 
Francis Hipp, and those who worked with him, our State stands both 
financially stronger and better positioned to compete in the 21st 
century global marketplace.
  Mr. President, Francis Hipp led a full and productive life, and 
through his work, he left a tremendous mark on South Carolina. He was a 
gifted businessman, a committed citizen of our State, and a dedicated 
and loyal family man. I was proud to count this man among my friends 
and regret that the Senate schedule prevented me from attending his 
memorial service today. My sympathies and condolences go out to all who 
knew Francis Moffett Hipp, especially his sons; Hayne and John; and 
daughter, Mary Jane Hipp Brock. We will all miss this man of integrity, 
ability, and vision.


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