[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 140 (Wednesday, October 17, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1909]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO JOE WILLIAMS, JR.

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. MIKE ROSS

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 17, 2001

  Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I wish to pay tribute to the life and 
achievements of a constituent from my congressional district who was 
not only the father of a close friend, but also a respected citizen of 
South Arkansas, Joe Williams, Jr., who passed away recently at the age 
of 66.
  Joe Williams, Jr. was born in the southern Arkansas town of Sparkman 
in 1935. At a young age, he joined the Harmony Baptist Church in the 
nearby community of Pine Grove. After attending Sparkman Training 
School, Joe spent time as a young adult living in Kansas City, 
Missouri, and Dallas, Texas, before returning home to Pine Grove, where 
he became an invaluable member of the community.
  As a young man, he was first employed by the International Paper 
Company and then by the Taylor Gin Company as a truck driver and a 
farmer. He later held jobs with Georgia Pacific Corporation as a jitney 
driver as well as St. Clair Rubber Company as a press operator before 
retiring to his beloved country farm in Pine Grove.
  Joe led an active and productive life, yet he always put his family 
first. He maintained a strong commitment to the church and took an 
active role in local politics in Dallas County. When he wasn't working 
or serving his community, he liked to spend time hunting, fishing, 
working on and collecting automobiles, gardening, or working with his 
farm tractor.
  Joe Williams, Jr. will long be remembered for his dedication to his 
family, his work, and his community. His passing is a great loss not 
only to those who knew him well, but to all of South Arkansas. My 
thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Elzadie, his sons, Stanley and 
Stacy, and all his family and friends.

                          ____________________