[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 84 (Wednesday, May 15, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E504]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING MS. MARLENE MITCHELL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RALPH NORMAN

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 15, 2024

  Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable 
individual, Marlene Mitchell, whose dedication to her family, her work, 
and to our great Nation continues to inspire and impact our community. 
Marlene was born in a small town in southern Illinois, raised by her 
grandmother, who instilled honesty, hard work, perseverance, and love 
of God, family, and country in her. Her commitment to these values can 
be seen in her own life, and the lives of those around her, still 
today.
  Marlene married the love of her life, Gary Mitchell in January 1969. 
They moved throughout the East Coast while Gary served in the Navy. I 
want to thank both Marlene and Gary for their sacrifice in service to 
this Nation. She is also the loving mother to two daughters, Stephanie 
and Stacy, and grandmother to three grandchildren, Victoria, 
Alexandria, and Mitchell. Reverend Billy Graham said, ``only God 
Himself fully appreciates the influence of a Christian mother in the 
molding of her children. Most of the noble characters and fine leaders 
of history have had good, God-fearing mothers. The influence of a 
mother upon the lives of children cannot be measured.'' Marlene is a 
living example of the value of having a strong, God-fearing mother. The 
power of her influence can be seen in the success of her children and 
grandchildren.
  Marlene started out her career as a receptionist in an insurance 
agency and soon after discovered that she had a strong passion for 
insurance. In 1982, she opened an independent agency before opening her 
own independent agency in a partnership, and then became the sole owner 
in November of 1986. She retired in October of 2016 after years of 
successful, award-winning years of service. Marlene was regarded by her 
clients as one of the most honest and knowledgeable agents around.
  Marlene has also served as the President of the York County South 
Carolina Republican Women's Party. Over the years, she has chaired and 
advocated for many important fundraisers, projects, and charities. 
Marlene has displayed great perseverance and courage in her work for 
what is right and beneficial to all Americans.

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