[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 152 (Friday, September 20, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1188]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING THE LIFE OF RICHARD SWANN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. STEPHANIE N. MURPHY

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 20, 2019

  Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the 
extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Richard Swann, a great man 
and a good man, who recently passed away.
  Richard's life wasn't just full, it was overflowing. Overflowing with 
action and accomplishment, trial and triumph, and--above all--family 
and friendship.
  Richard lost his childhood sweetheart and beloved wife Doris too 
young, but he poured his energy into his work, into his four children 
and 12 grandchildren, and into his large and loyal network of friends.
  Richard packed so much into his 79 years on earth. He was a wise 
lawyer, a far-sighted businessman and real estate developer, and an 
influential player at the highest level of American and Florida 
politics.
  Richard was a proud Orlando native, and foresaw the city's potential 
before nearly anybody else. Without fanfare, Richard did as much as any 
man to transform Orlando into the unique and wonderful place it is 
today.
  Richard was best known as a champion of the political causes and 
candidates he cared about. He was committed to the concept of 
responsible and engaged citizenship.
  At the service celebrating Richard's life, his granddaughter Caroline 
read an excerpt from Teddy Roosevelt's speech ``The Man in the Arena.''
  Richard never sat on the sidelines. He was always in the arena, 
striving valiantly. Like any man who dares greatly, he also suffered 
setbacks along the way.
  In the end, despite a lifetime marked by achievement, perhaps 
Richard's most admirable quality was his fortitude and resilience in 
the face of adversity.
  Richard was a pillar of our central Florida community. He will be 
deeply missed by all of us who had the honor to call him a friend.

                          ____________________