HR 1328: Shipman, Ron; honoring the life and legacy; condolences

House Resolution 1328

By: Representatives Jones of the 143rd, Paris of the 142nd, Herring of the 145th, Griffin of the 149th, and Reese of the 140th

A RESOLUTION

Honoring the life and legacy of Ron Shipman; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the passing of Ron Shipman, an extraordinary business executive, visionary public servant, and devoted family man whose life's work reflected an unwavering commitment to leadership, service, and the advancement of communities throughout Middle Georgia, this state, and beyond; and

WHEREAS, throughout a distinguished career spanning nearly four decades, Ron Shipman served with excellence at Georgia Power, beginning in 1984 at Plant Hatch as a nuclear chemistry technician and environmental specialist and rising through numerous leadership roles in environmental affairs, legislative and external affairs, customer service, and regional operations, ultimately serving as Vice President of the Southwest Region, where he oversaw electric service delivery to hundreds of thousands of customers across a vast multiregional territory; and

WHEREAS, his leadership at Georgia Power strengthened infrastructure reliability, fostered economic growth, and advanced responsible environmental stewardship, earning him widespread respect as a thoughtful executive who balanced innovation with community responsibility; and

WHEREAS, following his distinguished tenure in the electric utility industry, he continued his commitment to public service through leadership in economic development and regional advancement, including work with industrial development initiatives and civic organizations that helped position Middle Georgia for sustainable growth and opportunity; and

WHEREAS, Ron Shipman later served as Executive Director and President of the Macon Water Authority, becoming the first African American to hold that role and leading with vision and purpose to strengthen operational excellence, build public trust, and ensure reliable water resources for the citizens of Bibb County and surrounding communities; and

WHEREAS, beyond his professional accomplishments, he was deeply devoted to his beloved wife, Anita Shipman, whose steadfast support and partnership were central to his life's journey, and together they built a legacy grounded in faith, family, service, and compassion; and

WHEREAS, those who knew him best recognized that his greatest pride was found not only in his professional achievements but in the love he shared with his family and the example he set as a husband, father, mentor, and friend; and

WHEREAS, his influence extended throughout civic and educational initiatives across Middle Georgia, where he championed collaboration, mentorship, and opportunity, leaving a lasting imprint on the business community, public institutions, and the lives of countless Georgians; and

WHEREAS, the passing of Ron Shipman represents a profound loss to Anita Shipman, his family, the Macon community, the State of Georgia, and all who were touched by his leadership and generosity of spirit; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the remarkable life of this distinguished Georgian be recognized by this body and that his legacy be preserved as an enduring example of excellence, service, and compassion.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body honor the life and memory of Ron Shipman and recognize his extraordinary contributions to his family, Georgia Power, industrial and economic development efforts, the Macon Water Authority, the business community, and the State of Georgia.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to Anita Shipman and the Shipman family.