[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 24 (Monday, February 7, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E119-E120]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE LIFE OF DIXIE CLEM

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. VAN TAYLOR

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 7, 2022

  Mr. TAYLOR. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to honor and celebrate the 
life of Dixie Carolyn Clem.
  The youngest of four children, Dixie was born on October 30, 1930, in 
Booneville, Arkansas. In 1948, she would many Emmitt Mason Clem, and 
they would remain firmly united in marriage for 53 years until his 
passing in 2001.
  In 1955, Dixie relocated to Plano, Texas after her husband was 
appointed the Band Director for Plano High School. Upon settling in the 
area, Dixie began a lifelong involvement in her beloved Plano community 
including her membership at First United Methodist Church in Plano, the 
Plano Chapter Order of Easter Star, Mother Advisor of Plano Rainbow 
Chamber, Plano Good Sam Travel Club, Past President of Plano Business 
and Professional Women, and as the first woman to serve on the Plano 
Planning and Zoning Commission. Dixie also maintained employment with 
the Plano Star Courier.
  Always invested in her community, Mrs. Clem maintained a deep 
commitment to the Girl Scouts and could oftentimes be seen supporting 
her husband from the stands at band marching contests and football 
games. Dixie and Emmitt maintained a passion for travel and were known 
to spend summers journeying

[[Page E120]]

in their RV to Colorado. A beloved fixture in her family, Dixie was 
particularly known for creating treasured memories with her 
grandchildren and great grandchildren.
  Dixie is often considered a pioneer in helping to establish the 
Collin County Republican Party. For 55 years she focused her efforts on 
mentoring others to work towards bettering their communities and to 
become politically active at all levels of government. Greatly admired 
by those around her and as a testament to her efforts to train up the 
next generation of leaders, she received several notable recognitions 
including the Texas Federation of Republican Women's ``Ten Outstanding 
Women Award'' and ``The Legacy Leadership Award.''
  While we mourn the loss of this respected matriarch of Collin County 
conservatism, we celebrate her many contributions to shaping the 
political landscape. Likewise, we rest in the knowledge her legacy will 
continue on as the award that bears her name--the highest honor 
bestowed upon a member of the Collin County GOP--will continue to be 
presented to those who embody next generation ideals of servant 
leadership.
  While many in Collin County will miss her gumption and steadfast 
presence, together we recognize a life well lived. Now as we honor the 
life of Mrs. Dixie Clem, I ask my colleagues in the House of 
Representatives to join me in celebrating her rich legacy.

                          ____________________