[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 99 (Wednesday, June 12, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E620]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        REMEMBERING WAYNE SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE WILSON

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 12, 2024

  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the 
remarkable life of Mr. Wayne Smith, who passed away on June 6, 2024, 
and offer my sympathy to his family. I am grateful for his service to 
our country as a distinguished maritime captain and an influential 
legislative figure, notably contributing to the U.S. House Committee on 
Merchant Marine and Fisheries. His dedication to community service, 
creative spirit, and transformative mentorship leaves behind an 
enduring legacy of compassion and leadership. I include in the Record 
the following obituary for Wayne Smith:

       Wayne Smith was born on December 10, 1945, in Winchester, 
     Massachusetts, where he grew up alongside his beloved sister 
     Wendy, whom he adored.
       Wayne graduated from Abingdon High School in 1963 and went 
     on to receive his bachelor's degree from the U.S. Merchant 
     Marine Academy in 1968. His maritime career was distinguished 
     by his service as a Captain, commanding U.S. Naval 
     Oceanographic vessels and traveling the world.
       From 1975 to 1987, Wayne made significant contributions to 
     the U.S. House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries. As 
     Staff Director of the Subcommittee on Oceanography and the 
     Subcommittee on Fisheries and Wildlife Conservation and the 
     Environment, he played a pivotal role in shaping maritime and 
     environmental legislation. Concurrently, he served as Chief 
     of Staff to Congressman and Senator John Breaux of Louisiana, 
     where his leadership and expertise were invaluable.
       In 1981, Wayne, joined forces with Senator John Breaux, who 
     was then serving as the captain of the Mystick Krewe of 
     Louisiana. Together, they conceived a grand and ambitious 
     idea: Louisiana Alive! They aimed to celebrate and showcase 
     the vibrant and diverse culture of Louisiana, extending 
     beyond the well-known charm of New Orleans to include the 
     rich traditions and unique flavors of all the state's 
     parishes. Their vision was to create an event that captured 
     the essence of Louisiana's music, cuisine, and heritage, 
     offering an immersive experience that highlighted the best 
     the state had to offer.
       In recognition of Wayne's extraordinary creativity, 
     dedication, and inclusive spirit, Louisiana Alive! 2025 is 
     set to proceed as a tribute to his legacy. This event will 
     not only honor Wayne's contributions but also continue his 
     mission of celebrating Louisiana's unique cultural tapestry.
       In 1987, Wayne founded ThePOTOMACGroup, where he served as 
     President and CEO. Under his visionary leadership, the firm 
     thrived, representing individuals, associations, and Fortune 
     500 companies with distinction.
       Wayne's commitment to community and education was evident 
     in his service as Vice Chair of the Washington International 
     School and his longstanding board membership with the CASI 
     Foundation for Children, where he focused on adoption issues.
       Wayne celebrated 37 years of sobriety, during which he 
     dedicated himself to helping others achieve the same, 
     transforming countless lives through his unwavering support 
     and mentorship. His crowning achievement came in 1999 when he 
     and Don adopted their son, Qwan. As a devoted and supportive 
     father, Wayne nurtured Qwan with boundless love and guidance, 
     playing a pivotal role in his development into the remarkable 
     gentleman he is today. Wayne's commitment to both his 
     sobriety and his family is a testament to his character, 
     illustrating the profound impact one person can have on the 
     lives of many. His legacy of compassion and resilience 
     continues to inspire all who knew him.
       Wayne's legacy is one of empathy, wisdom, humor, and 
     stability. He will be remembered for his class, style, 
     elegance, and fierce compassion. His cultivated appreciation 
     for art and color enriched the lives of all who knew him.
       Wayne is survived by his loving husband, Don Schimanski; 
     his cherished son, Qwan Smith; his nephews, David and Doug 
     Deker; and many beloved in-laws, nieces, and nephews.
       Wayne's life was a tapestry of compassion, leadership, and 
     unwavering commitment to those he loved and the causes he 
     championed. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who 
     were fortunate enough to know him.

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