[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 143 (Monday, October 21, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S12440]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              HAROLD JINKS

 Mr. BUMPERS. Mr. President, Arkansas lost one of its treasures 
last week. Harold Jinks of Piggott, AR, whom Arkansans affectionately 
refer to as ``Mr. Democrat,'' passed away at the age of 90.
  If the term ``yellow-dog Democrat'' were in the dictionary, Harold 
Jinks would be listed as the definition. Though Harold Jinks studied to 
be a farmer in school, it was the study and practice of politics that 
sustained him throughout his life.
  A friend to many Presidents and to every major Democratic 
officeholder in Arkansas, Harold Jinks brought enthusiasm into every 
rook he entered. He admonished young people about their duty to vote 
and be involved in politics. To Harold, being a mere spectator in 
politics was a sin. You had a duty to be a player.
  Active in his community and his church, Harold worked for many years 
at USDA and was at one time a special assistant to the regional 
director of the U.S. Postal Service.
  Harold was southwest regional director for the Democratic National 
Convention in 1957 and attended most conventions thereafter either as a 
delegate or strong advocate for the national ticket. He chaired the 
Arkansas Committee on Seniors for Carter-Mondale.
  In retirement, if you could call it that with Harold, he authored 
books and founded the Senior Democrats of Arkansas and served as 
chairman of the Arkansas Joint Legislative Committee of the National 
Retired Teachers Association and AARP. He also found time to organize 
the Washington-based Buy American Action Coalition to promote the 
buying of American products.
  He was a walking whirlwind of activity, and always at work promoting 
a cause or a candidate. A virtual encyclopedia, he enjoyed the history 
of politics as much as he did the campaigns.
   Mr. President, Harold Jinks taught us all the importance of being 
involved in our Government. He chided us when he thought we were 
dragging our feet and applauded us when we were conscientious. He was 
loved by those of us in Arkansas who shared his passion for politics, 
and he will be missed by all who had the good fortune to know him and 
be touched by him and his infectious enthusiasm for the political 
process.
  Betty and I extend our deepest sympathy to Harold's lovely and 
devoted wife, Wilma. We owe her our gratitude as well for sharing 
Harold with us.

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