[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 148 (Wednesday, September 14, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E928]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       RECOGNIZING JAMES WIMSATT

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRETT GUTHRIE

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 14, 2022

  Mr. GUTHRIE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to wish James L. Wimsatt a 
happy 104th birthday. James is a World War II veteran and fixture in 
the Owensboro community for his work to build up Kentucky through his 
artwork.
  James Wimsatt was born in Ohio County on September 18, 1918, to 
Thomas and Iva Wimsatt. Due to not being able to afford books, James 
took up painting and drawing and was considered gifted with art at a 
young age.
  Before leaving to serve during World War II, James proposed to 
Gertrude ``Trudy'' Mitchell. She would not accept at the time but told 
him she would wait for him. They were married in 1945 and had 77 years 
of marriage together when she passed away on July 28, 2022. A member of 
James' family said James and Trudy were one of the greatest love 
stories.
  Following his military service, James worked at Kroger and then GE 
until his retirement. He also wanted to showcase the beauty of our 
Commonwealth, so he used his artistic talents to paint scenes of 
Kentucky, reminding us Kentuckians of the deep pride we have for our 
home.
  I join the Owensboro community and James' family and friends in 
wishing James a happy 104th birthday and thank him for all he has done 
to serve our country and make Kentucky shine through his artwork.

                          ____________________