[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 25 (Tuesday, February 11, 2014)]
[Senate]
[Page S889]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  REMEMBERING YETTA GLENN SAMFORD, JR.

 Mr. SESSIONS. Madam President, I note the passing at age 90 of 
a truly outstanding American citizen, Yetta Glenn Samford, Jr., a 
lifelong resident of Opelika, AL. Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller rightly 
called him an icon. The product of a distinguished Alabama family, he 
was successful in law and business, all the while giving of himself for 
his Nation and community.
  That such characteristics, such cast of mind and heart, have provided 
the unique values that have made America great is without doubt. The 
deeply held concept of neighbor helping neighbor has been the glory of 
the Republic. A member of the ``greatest generation'', Yetta Samford 
served his country and was consistently successful in his undertakings. 
He flourished in law and business. But, he was focused on giving back. 
He loved his country, State and community and was a strong believer in 
education. During World War II, he piloted B-17 bombers being stationed 
in England in 1944 and 1945--a calling that placed his very life at 
risk. Returning from the war, grateful for his survival, he declared, 
``I thank the Lord for letting me come back.'' Then he married his 
wonderful lifetime partner, Mary Austill, got his degree at Auburn 
University and his law degree at the University of Alabama.
  From then on success followed him and he lived a life of generosity. 
How many today will reach his level of service? Are we still producing 
such people? Perhaps so, but in the same numbers?
  Yetta Samford was supportive of a host of positive activities. He was 
active in many local organizations, donated the land for the Opelika 
Sportsplex and Aquatics Center, and was a member of the board of 
deacons for the First Baptist Church of Opelika for 60 years. He served 
on the prestigious board of trustees of the University of Alabama, 
serving a 3-year-term as president pro tempore. He was, in addition, a 
founding trustee for the University of Mobile, a fine Baptist 
affiliated liberal arts college.
  Mr. Samford was respected and loved throughout the Opelika area. He 
set a high standard for a life well lived. I was honored to have his 
friendship. Professionally accomplished, a man of high character and 
generous with his time, talents and resources, Yetta Samford's life 
reflected the highest qualities of American citizenship. It is fitting 
that this Senate take note of such a life.
  He took great joy in his exceptional wife, Mary Austill Samford, and 
daughters Mary Austill Samford Lott and Katherine Park Samford Alford, 
five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. They reflect these 
same qualities and can take solace in the heritage that he has left 
them.

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