[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 97 (Friday, June 6, 2025)]
[House]
[Pages H2518-H2519]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1050
        HONORING JOEL WILLIS FOR 45 YEARS OF SERVICE TO GEORGIA

  (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a 
constituent of mine, Mr. Joel Willis, for his recent retirement after 
45 years of serving his community in St. Simons Island, Georgia.
  Mr. Willis epitomized strong leadership and an unwavering work ethic, 
earning him his position as CEO of Epworth by the Sea.
  Through nearly 50 years of hard work at Epworth, Mr. Ellis 
transformed what was once a humble motel into a state-of-the-art 
retreat, tourist destination, and host to Christian conferences.

[[Page H2519]]

  Epworth by the Sea undertook an incredible expansion under Mr. 
Willis' leadership, adding over 135 rooms and 50 employees, fostering 
the growth of St. Simons Island. Not only have his efforts strengthened 
the local economy, but Mr. Willis has made it Epworth's mission to 
continue giving back, as shown through its history of accommodating 
church-related and nonprofit groups.
  Mr. Willis has exemplified the best of hard work and Southern 
hospitality, and it is an honor to recognize him and his service to the 
community of St. Simons Island.

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