[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 62 (Thursday, May 12, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E950]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        IN MEMORY OF LEO HACKNEY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH M. HALL

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 12, 2005

  Mr. HALL. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to celebrate the life of a 
great East Texan and my good friend, Leo Hackney, who passed away on 
February 22 at the age of 85. Leo was one of the giants in Greenville, 
Texas, where he devoted his life to serving the citizens of his beloved 
community.
  Leo served as Mayor of Greenville three times and as Mayor Pro-Tem 
and Council Member. He was chairman of the Greenville Board of 
Development and president of the Chamber of Commerce. He served as tri-
captain for Greenville's Sesquicentennial Celebration that established 
the Audie Murphy Statue for the city. He served as a member of the 
Greenville Independent School District, Greenville Hospital, YMCA, U.S. 
Savings Bond Board, Citizens for Growing Greenville, Greenville Majors 
Baseball Team Club and Junior Chamber of Commerce. He headed the March 
of Dimes Drive and United Way Fund, the drive to build a Sports Complex 
for the City, and served as president of the Hunt County Development 
Council. He was one of the organizers of Colonial Bank and operated it 
for several years. Earlier in his career, he joined KGVL radio station, 
beginning in sales and reporting and working up to general manager and 
eventually president. He later became president of sister FM station 
KIKT and built the first cable television system in Greenville.
  Leo's many accomplishments could fill volumes, and his influence in 
Greenville and Hunt County will be felt for years to come. In 
recognition of his significant contributions, the Greenville Herald 
Banner named Leo Outstanding Young Man in 1958, and he received the 
Greenville Worthy Citizen of the Year award in 1975. The street leading 
up to the Sports Complex was named Leo Hackney Boulevard in his honor.
  Leo also served his Nation with distinction during World War II. He 
graduated in the top three percent of Naval Midshipman School and 
served as Captain of the ship that escorted General Douglas McArthur in 
the Philippines. He retired as Captain from the U.S. Navy after 27 
years of service.
  For 20 years Leo served on the committee to nominate youth to 
military academies for my predecessor, Congressman Ray Roberts, and 
continued to serve for another 20 years on my committee to recommend 
academy appointments. He served with distinction and was my trusted 
adviser and good friend.
  Leo also was devoted to his family--his wife, Dava, daughters and 
sons-in-law Susan and Jim Rath of Houston and Sharon and Joe Leonard of 
Greenville, brother Bill Hackney of Cibolo and six grandchildren. He 
was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather who supported and 
encouraged his family, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness and 
accomplishments that will endure for generations.
  Leo excelled in all that he did at every stage of his life. He was 
never satisfied to be only a member or supporter. He was a leader, and 
when he wasn't leading, he made others better leaders through his 
example and encouragement. Leo was never simply a friend--he was a best 
friend to so many. The City of Greenville and our Nation are enriched 
by the life of this esteemed citizen. Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, 
let us do so in honor and memory of this wonderful man, great American 
and my good friend--Leo Hackney.

                          ____________________