[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1081]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF DR. RALPH RUSH HENDRICKS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 14, 2011

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States 
Congress, it is with great respect and honor that I rise today to 
recognize the life of Northwest Florida's beloved Ralph Hendricks.
  Born in Jay, Florida on June 3, 1927, Ralph Hendricks lived a life 
deeply rooted in his strong faith in God and love for his family and 
community. Dr. Hendricks began preaching along the Gulf Coast after 
graduating from Asbury College and Candler School of Theology at Emory 
University. An ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, Dr. 
Hendricks served pastorates throughout the Alabama-West Florida 
Conference for 40 years, including those in Escambia, Santa Rosa and 
Okaloosa counties.
  His service to the Northwest Florida community, however, spread 
beyond the doors of the church. A pivotal leader in the local 
community, Dr. Hendricks served six years as a District Superintendent 
of the Andalusia District. He also served 37 years in the United States 
Navy and became chaplain of the Alabama Army National Guard. During his 
role as chaplain, he obtained the rank of Colonel and was awarded the 
Meritorious Service Medal. After his retirement, he continued to 
dedicate his time to those in need as Hospice chaplain in Escambia 
County, Florida.
  To some, Ralph Hendricks will be remembered as a community leader and 
to others as a dedicated pastor and chaplain. To his family, he will 
forever be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and 
great grandfather. Ralph is survived by his wife Betty of 57 years; his 
children, Randy, Steve, and Mary Kaye; 7 grandchildren and 1 great 
grandchild.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am privileged 
to honor the life of Dr. Ralph Hendricks for his honorable leadership 
and service to Northwest Florida and to this great nation. My wife 
Vicki and I offer our prayers for his entire family. He will be truly 
missed.

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