[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 142 (Tuesday, September 9, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S8177]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING BILL GWATNEY

 Mr. PRYOR. Mr. President, it is with great sadness I rise to 
honor a great American, a great Arkansan and my friend. Bill Gwatney, a 
valiant public servant, was taken from us on August 13, 2008.
  Bill was my friend for many years. This included his days as an 
elected official in Arkansas where he served as a State senator for 10 
years. He was committed to improving the State of Arkansas by taking 
the lead on legislative redistricting, reforming ethics rules, and 
encouraging economic development throughout the State. While serving in 
the State senate he fought against insurance companies to pass the Any 
Willing Provider legislation. This allowed patients more flexibility in 
choosing their doctors. He inspired other great leaders to lift the 
State and the country into a prosperous future. He worked tirelessly 
every day to make Arkansas a better place for his children and for 
children from the Delta to the Ozarks.
  He became chair of our State party in 2007 and was a leader in 
getting the party to where it is today. His work ethic and ability to 
bring people together were unmatched. His personality was contagious, 
likable, and he was an all around wonderful person. In the days 
following his death, he was praised on both sides of the aisle. Bill 
was taken from us too soon.
  I echo a comment by Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe who said: ``Arkansas 
has lost a great son, and I have lost a great friend.'' These words 
ring true to any Arkansan who had the privilege of knowing him. He 
believed strongly in integrity and good leadership within the State of 
Arkansas. His death put in perspective what he believed, that public 
service is about people, and with his passing Arkansas has lost one of 
its finest.
  Bill leaves behind a wife Rebecca and children, Christian and Chase, 
along with two step-children, Zachary and Emily.
  I ask my collogues to join with me in paying tribute to the life of a 
great family man, business leader, and public servant, Mr. Bill 
Gwatney.

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