[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 93 (Friday, June 29, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1255]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 ON THE DEATH OF PATRICK B. HARRIS, FORMER STATE LEGISLATOR AND CIVIC 
                   LEADER OF ANDERSON, SOUTH CAROLINA

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                         HON. LINDSEY O. GRAHAM

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 28, 2001

  Mr. GRAHAM. Mr. Speaker, I am saddened to report to the House of 
Representatives the death of Patrick B. Harris of Anderson, South 
Carolina. He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Elizabeth.
  I had the distinct honor of serving with `Mr. Pat' in the South 
Carolina House of Representatives where he served for more than twenty 
years. It truly was an honor to serve with him as he was a tireless 
advocate on behalf of senior citizens and people with mental illness.
  Among his numerous accomplishments in public office were the creation 
of a property-tax homestead exemption for people older than 65, 
creating a sales tax exemption on prescription drugs for those age 50 
and older, making elder abuse a crime, and allowing people age 65 and 
older to attend state colleges and universities tuition-free.
  Born in Mount Carmel in 1911, Mr. Pat attended Anderson Boys High 
School where he played both football and baseball.
  He began work when he left Presbyterian College in Clinton, South 
Carolina to work in a textile mill during the Great Depression. He also 
owned and operated a local gas company and for many years was involved 
in real estate.
  Mr. Pat was awarded numerous honors and awards during his life 
including an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Erskine College and 
the Order of the Palmetto from former Governor Carroll Campbell.
  With the passing of Pat Harris South Carolina has lost an 
extraordinary statesman and gentleman. I'm sure other Members of the 
House join me in sending our condolences to his family and loved ones.

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