[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E547]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF GILBERT ``BUTCH'' WALLACE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JOE WILSON

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 9, 2026

  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life 
and legacy of Gilbert ``Butch'' Wallace, a devoted husband, father, 
grandfather, friend, and public servant whose impact on our community 
will be felt for generations.
  Butch is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Carolyn Wallace, 
their two daughters, Heather Wallace and Michelle Boone, and grandson 
Tyler Muller. Together they built a family grounded in faith, service, 
and love.
  The Wilson family always welcomed him as ``Uncle Butch,'' Attorney 
General Alan Wilson and Palmetto State Armory founder Julian Wilson 
were especially encouraged by ``Uncle Butch.''
  A Florida native, Butch attended Florida State University where he 
earned a degree in Communications and Business. He went on to build a 
successful State Farm Agency, serving his community for 48 years. 
Through his work, he not only helped countless families and businesses, 
but also, created jobs and contributed to the economic growth of our 
state.
  For more than 20 years, Butch has served as a valued member of my 
staff, where he touched the lives of countless South Carolinians, 
including my own. His wisdom and unwavering commitment to others made 
him an indispensable member of Team Wilson and a trusted friend of all 
those who worked alongside him.
  His dedication to service extended far beyond his professional life. 
He was deeply involved in his community serving as a Charter Member and 
President of the West Metro Rotary Club, President of the National 
Kidney Foundation of South Carolina, a member of the National 
Federation of Independent Business State Advisory Council, and a member 
of the Boy Scouts of America Indian Waters Council Board. Additionally, 
in 2019, he was a recipient of the Order of the Palmetto, South 
Carolina's highest civilian award.
  His commitment to civic engagement led him to serve in many political 
leadership roles including as Chairman of the Lexington County 
Republican Party and as a delegate to many state and county 
conventions.
  Butch lived a life defined by service, integrity, and kindness. South 
Carolina is better because of his contributions, and all who knew him 
are better for having called him a friend. He leaves behind a legacy of 
leadership, compassion, and service that will endure long beyond his 
lifetime.
  May we honor Butch by striving to serve others with the same 
dedication and grace that he demonstrated throughout his remarkable 
life.

                          ____________________