SR 7: State Highway System; dedicate certain portions

Senate Resolution 7

By: Senator Dolezal of the 27th

AS PASSED

A RESOLUTION

Dedicating certain portions of the state highway system; and for other purposes.

PART I

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Dr. Robert F. Sullivan Memorial Highway was sponsored by Senator Bo Hatchett as SR 583 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Robert F. Sullivan has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that he has played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Sullivan was born on September 21, 1927, the beloved son of Franklin Clyde and Minnie Valdivia "Dee" Gillespie Sullivan and served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Navy during the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Sullivan earned his medical degree from Emory University, began his medical practice in Carnesville, Georgia, in 1957, and served as chief of staff for Cobb Memorial Hospital in Royston, Georgia; and

WHEREAS, he diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced dramatically by his superlative service as president of the Carnesville Lions Club; and

WHEREAS, a man of deep and abiding faith, Dr. Sullivan was a lifelong member of Carnesville Methodist Church; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a road in his memory.

PART II

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Lary Jack Moree Memorial Bridge was sponsored by Senator Sam Watson as SR 612 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Lary Jack Moree has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that he played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Moree was born on November 9, 1942, the beloved son of R.V. and Miltie Jeanette Johnson Moree and was the owner and operator of Moree's Grocery and Liquor Store, the family business he took over from his father; and

WHEREAS, an avid golfer, Mr. Moree gave inspiration to many through his high ideals, morals, and deep concern for his fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, the devotion, patience, and understanding Mr. Moree demonstrated to his family and friends were admired by others; and

WHEREAS, he was a person of magnanimous strengths with an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness, and kindness, and by the example he made of his life, he made this world a better place in which to live; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a bridge in his memory.

PART III

WHEREAS, the dedication of the "Coach" Jerry L. Waller, Sr., and Frances R. Waller Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Senator Steve Gooch as SR 633 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Jerry Lee Waller, Sr., was born in Cobb County to the late Gordon Lee Waller and Frances Ocille Smith Waller on March 12, 1938, and was called home to be with the Lord on September 13, 2006; and

WHEREAS, Mary Frances Rogers Waller, who went by Frances, was born in Cohutta to the late Lloyd Rogers and Ethel Oliver Rogers on July 5, 1940, and was called home to be with the Lord on March 27, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Jerry and Frances met and fell in love at Berry College in Rome, Georgia, married on August 26, 1961, and built their lives together and raised a family encompassing six children, 14 grandchildren, and growing numbers of great-grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, from 1966 and thereafter, Jerry and Frances raised their family in the same home on Lakewood Drive until their passings and played important roles in their community and in their church, the Gospel Light Baptist Tabernacle; and

WHEREAS, Jerry began his career as a school teacher along with Frances before moving back to Cobb County to join the manufacturing industry, culminating in almost 25 years working for Lockheed Martin in Marietta supporting the production of C-130s; and

WHEREAS, Frances's passion was for education and children which was demonstrated by her calling to be an elementary school teacher with over 20 years of service at four schools: Coosa Elementary, Johnson Elementary, Lockheed Elementary, and Marietta Christian School; and

WHEREAS, Frances never stopped being an educator, with a great sense of dry humor, to the young and the old until the day she left this world; and

WHEREAS, Jerry and Frances made youth baseball and sports a family endeavor, making Adams Park in Kennesaw a second home with five children cycling through the park for over two decades; and

WHEREAS, Jerry inspired leadership traits in his children through taking on various roles including coach, umpire, and president of the Kennesaw Baseball Association; and

WHEREAS, Jerry, a deacon, and Frances, a Sunday school teacher, were anchored by their faith and called to serve family, friends, and strangers by opening up their home and offering their resources to those in need for over 45 years; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that these remarkable and distinguished Georgians be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in their memory.

PART IV

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Dr. Jim Morrow Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Senator Greg Dolezal as SR 631 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Jim Morrow dedicated 43 years to providing compassionate care as a family medicine physician, a gifted diagnostician, and a beloved friend to his patients and colleagues; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Clemson University and the University of South Carolina, Dr. Morrow was the CEO of Morrow Family Medicine, a state of the art family practice in Cumming, Georgia, for ten years, where he was adored by his staff as a mentor, a friend, and a trusted physician and earned the titles of the "Top 25 Place to Work in Atlanta" and the "Best in Forsyth" in family medicine; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Morrow's leadership was invaluable to organizations such as the Certification Commission for Healthcare Information Technology and the Health Information Management and Systems Society (HIMSS); and

WHEREAS, his talent was recognized with numerous honors and awards, including the 2014 Steve Bloom Entrepreneur of the Year by the Cumming Forsyth Chamber of Commerce, the Phoenix Award as Community Leader of the Year from the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, the HIMSS Primary Care Davies Award, the HIMSS Physician IT Leader of the Year, and the Distinguished Humanitarian Physician Alumni of the Year Award from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his memory.

PART V

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Mr. Joseph Donald "J.D." Winston Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Senator Nan Orrock as SR 774 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Joseph Donald "J.D." Winston was born on March 30, 1915, in Lanette, Alabama, the youngest of 11 siblings born to Hope and Mary Winston; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Washington High School in Atlanta, Georgia, Mr. Winston attended Clark College and dedicated his life to enriching and uplifting young children at the historic Butler Street YMCA, which served as the only Black YMCA in the city; and

WHEREAS, while at the Butler Street YMCA, he served as a mentor to future leaders such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Vernon Jordan, Jesse Hill, Herman Russell, Maynard Jackson, Walt Frazier, Ambassador Andrew Young, and countless others; and

WHEREAS, his contributions to the community were recognized in 1995 when the Butler Street YMCA constructed a new branch and named the facility the J.D. Winston YMCA; and

WHEREAS, a man of deep and abiding faith, Mr. Winston was an active and faithful member of the Second Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where he served in numerous capacities, including as a Sunday school teacher; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his memory.

PART VI

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Lawhorne Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Representative Brent Cox as HR 1118 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Kristi Jayne, Karolyn "Karri" Marie, and Tabbatha Rene' Lawhorne passed away in a tragic car accident on May 17, 1998; and

WHEREAS, Kristi Jayne Lawhorne was born on May 16, 1980, and was a cheerleader, cross-country runner, and a budding actress; and

WHEREAS, Kristi Jayne had a great love for Jesus and after her passing it was discovered that she had a list of over 100 people for whom she prayed daily; and

WHEREAS, Tabbatha Rene' Lawhorne was born in June 18, 1982, and was a standout soccer and softball player; and

WHEREAS, Tabbatha was a compassionate and generous soul, who went out of her way to help others in their time of need; and

WHEREAS, Karolyn "Karri" Marie Lawhorne was born on December 18, 1983, and was beautiful both inside and out; and

WHEREAS, Karri loved her family and friends fiercely and was known as the life of the party as a talented singer, star athlete, and an amazing artist; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that these remarkable and distinguished Georgians be recognized appropriately by dedicating an intersection in their memory.

PART VII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Michael Anthony Woodall Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Representative Patty Marie Stinson as HR 1162 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Michael Anthony Woodall was a dedicated and faithful public servant whose life was tragically cut short on June 15, 2023, during service as the District 3 assistant highway maintenance foreman with the Georgia Department of Transportation; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodall diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced dramatically by his superlative service after numerous severe weather incidents in this state; and

WHEREAS, he played a vital role for the Georgia Department of Transportation and was known for his willingness to do whatever was necessary to ensure roads in this state were clear and safe for travel; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodall began his career with the department in 2018 as an equipment operator and worked his way up to assistant foreman in Columbus; and

WHEREAS, he was known by his colleagues and others as a very kind and generous person who was always willing to help and who never once hesitated when performing his job duties; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Woodall will always be remembered for his love of the outdoors, the Georgia Bulldogs, and his unyielding commitment that set the standard for public service; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his memory.

PART VIII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the George R. Eusner Memorial Bridge was sponsored by Representative Patty Marie Stinson as HR 1227 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. George R. Eusner was raised in Monticello, New York, and graduated from Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1942; and

WHEREAS, his work transformed the refractory industry, as the vice president of the refractories and mineral technologies division at U.S. Steel and executive vice president of Davis Fire Brick Company; and

WHEREAS, in 1964, Mr. Eusner saw a need for calcined mullite for the refractory market, which led him to Andersonville, Georgia, where local raw materials were available through the Georgia Kaolin Company, and he joined forces with Mr. Lewis Eastern, mayor of Andersonville, to build a small plant that could produce 50 tons per week of high-quality calcine mullite; and

WHEREAS, he founded Mullite Company of America shortly thereafter, which became a major player in the industry known for its innovative technology and commitment to quality, and it continues to make a positive economic impact for Sumter, Schley, and Macon counties; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a bridge in his memory.

PART IX

WHEREAS, the dedication of the US Army Cpl. Dewey E. Lewis Jr., Memorial Bridge was sponsored by Representative John Corbett as HR 1228 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, our nation's security continues to rely on patriotic men and women who put their personal lives on hold in order to place themselves in harm's way to protect the freedoms that all United States citizens cherish; and

WHEREAS, Corporal Dewey E. Rewis, Jr., was a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Army, serving in the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, Corporal Rewis was reported missing in action on December 2, 1950, after his unit came under attack during an advance along the eastern banks of the Chosin Reservoir in North Korea; and

WHEREAS, it was reported that Corporal Rewis was held as a prisoner of war and died in an area called the Death Valley, which served as a collection point for United Nations prisoners, but his remains were not returned home to his family and accounted for until October 25, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Corporal Rewis demonstrated selfless service to this nation and his unyielding commitment to protecting the people and ideals of the United States in giving the ultimate sacrifice will be remembered always; and

WHEREAS, he embodied the spirit of service, willing to find meaning in something greater than himself and it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a bridge in his memory.

PART X

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Chairman Pete Liakakis Memorial Highway was sponsored by Representative Carl Gilliard as HR 1250 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Peter "Pete" Liakakis was born on January 9, 1932, in Savannah, Georgia, and attended Savannah High School; and

WHEREAS, he served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Air Force, was trained as a bomb disposal expert, and worked as the deputy director of civil defense during the Cold War Era and as a covert intelligence officer; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Liakakis operated several firework retail stores in Savannah and a small chain of Pal Convenience Stores before founding the United Security Agency and later the United Detective Agency, where he earned a well deserved reputation for getting results for his clients; and

WHEREAS, he provided security detail for the stars and sets of several movies filmed in Savannah and went on to co-produce films and television programs with Burt Reynolds through their production company, Sun Classic Pictures; and

WHEREAS, later in life, Mr. Liakakis worked in politics as a campaign manager and adviser before running for office himself in 1995 at age 63, when he was elected as alderman at large for the Savannah City Council; and

WHEREAS, he later served on the Chatham County Board of Commissioners as chairman and held leadership roles for the Chatham Area Transit Authority, the executive committee of the American Cancer Society, Savannah Tech Foundation, and the Beach Institute, to name just a few; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a road in his memory.

PART XI

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Frances Bright Johnson Memorial Interchange was sponsored by Representative Carl Gilliard as HR 1251 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Frances Bright Johnson was born on April 17, 1937, the beloved daughter of Robert Bryant, Sr., and Rosa Lee Williams; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Johnson was raised in Garden City, Georgia, and graduated from Richard Arnold High School; and

WHEREAS, an active leader of her community, Mrs. Johnson was a lifetime member of the NAACP, served for ten years as chairperson of the Political Advisory Council, was a member of the Chatham County Federation of Democratic Women, and was a member of the YMCA and YWCA Executive Board Democratic Forum; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Johnson's significant organizational and leadership talents, her remarkable patience and diplomacy, her keen sense of vision, and her sensitivity to the needs of the citizens of this state earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and associates; and

WHEREAS, she was a person of magnanimous strengths with an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness, and kindness; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating an interchange in her memory.

PART XII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Rev. Dr. Hosea Williams and Rep. Juanita T. Williams Memorial Interchange was sponsored by Representative Carl Gilliard as HR 1253 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Hosea L. Williams and Rep. Juanita T. Williams have long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital roles that they have played in leadership and their deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Dr. Hosea L. Williams was a renowned civil rights leader whose work was crucial in achieving one of the civil rights movement's greatest accomplishments, the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Bill and the 1965 Voting Rights Act; and

WHEREAS, born on January 5, 1926, Rev. Dr. Williams was orphaned at the age of ten after his blind mother passed away, yet he went on to earn a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Morris Brown College, earn a Purple Heart for his heroic service during World War II, and become a renowned research chemist with the United States Department of Agriculture; and

WHEREAS, Rep. Juanita Williams graduated third in her class at Savannah State College an earned a master's degree from Atlanta University; and

WHEREAS, she was elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1984 and diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of her time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of her community and state for four terms; and

WHEREAS, following the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., to "clothe the naked and feed the hungry," Rev. Dr. and Rep. Williams founded the Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless aid organization in 1970, which is currently the largest direct-to-client food service organization in the Southeast and a provider of medical and educational aid in Haiti and Philippines; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that these remarkable and distinguished Georgians be appropriately recognized by dedicating an interchange in their memory.

PART XIII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Bobby Thomas Highway was sponsored by Representative Lauren McDonald, III, as HR 1300 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Bobby Thomas was born in 1946 in Cumming, Georgia, graduated from Forsyth County High School, and earned a bachelor's degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology; and

WHEREAS, he served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Navy; and

WHEREAS, the Thomas family roots in Forsyth County run deep, with the family's origins dating to before the Civil War and operating the Thomas Lumber Company since 1927; and

WHEREAS, as the current owner of Thomas Lumber Company, Mr. Thomas takes pride in providing customers with the highest quality lumber products in pine, cypress, Brazilian hardwood, and cedar; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Thomas' significant organizational and leadership talents have been invaluable to numerous organizations, including the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club of Forsyth County, and the board of People's Bank of Forsyth County; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating a road in his honor.

PART XIV

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Jeff Downing Intersection was sponsored by Representative Rick Jasperse as HR 1325 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Jeff Downing has long been recognized by the citizens of Pickens County and this state for the vital leadership role that he has played in his community and the supermarket industry; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Downing began his grocery career in the tenth grade, working his way up to leadership positions for Big Star Food Markets and A&P; and

WHEREAS, in 2002, Mr. Downing and his wife Sandy opened and operated Foothills IGA in Marble Hill, Georgia, until his retirement in 2023; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Downing has earned many professional awards, including the IGA 2015 USA International Retailer of the Year award and the Georgia Food Industry Association's 2015 Legacy Award; and

WHEREAS, he has served in leadership positions in a number of philanthropic organizations, including the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, Good Samaritan Health and Wellness Center, CARES food bank, Rotary Club, Hope House, Pickens Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy, Georgia Food Industry Association, and the Georgia Food Industry Education Foundation; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Downing was named 2014 Pickens County Citizen of the Year in honor of his leadership and his service to the community; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his honor.

PART XV

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Maceo A. Brown Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Representative Mesha Mainor as HR 1326 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Maceo A. Brown was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and attended Henry McNeil Turner High School; and

WHEREAS, he became a certified electrician in 1974 and began his own business, Maceo A. Brown Electrical Contractors, which provides residential and commercial electrical services; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Brown established System 5 Electronics, which provides residential and commercial alarm system installation and monitoring; and

WHEREAS, in 2007, he founded MACEO's Kids, Inc., (Mentoring Aspiring CEO's), to bring intelligent, compassionate, and dedicated members of the business community together in pursuit of providing local youth with the opportunities and tools to grow as successful members of society; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his memory.

PART XVI

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Carolyn Long Banks Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Representative Mesha Mainor as HR 1327 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Carolyn Lucille Long Banks was born on October 30, 1940, in Atlanta, Georgia, the beloved daughter of Mr. Ralph A. Long, Sr., and Mrs. Rubye Carolyn Hall Long; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of Turner High School, Mrs. Banks attended Clark College where she became an active leader with the Atlanta Student Movement, which was a formidable force for change and mobilized students for marches, sit ins, and boycotts for civil rights and justice; and

WHEREAS, her leadership and dedication helped the Atlanta Student Movement see the integration of local businesses and city facilities; and

WHEREAS, in 1980, Mrs. Banks became the first African American woman to serve on the Atlanta City Council, where she spearheaded Atlanta's Proctor Creek Infrastructure Plan to support African American communities and co-sponsored the Freedom Parkway compromise; and

WHEREAS, she initiated a Children's Defense Fund partnership with cities across the nation to improve youth civic engagement and served as president of the National League of Cities; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Banks was a member of the University of Georgia Municipal Leadership Institute, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Leadership Atlanta, Atlanta Business League, NAACP, National Coalition of 100 Black Women, and Southwest Cascade Garden Club; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in her memory.

PART XVII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Douglas "Doug" H. Garrison Memorial Interchange was sponsored by Representative Holt Persinger as HR 1328 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished citizens with the passing of Mr. Douglas "Doug" H. Garrison on August 2, 2022; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Garrison graduated from the University of Georgia with a master's degree in horticulture in 1971; and

WHEREAS, he diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced dramatically by his superlative service with the County Extension Service, beginning with Elbert County and later transferring to Barrow County; and

WHEREAS, his leadership was instrumental to numerous organizations, including the Barrow County Board of Education, Barrow County Board of Commissioners, the Rotary Club, and Walton-Barrow Board of Realtors; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Garrison established the Barrow County Cattleman's Association and served as president of the Barrow County Farm Bureau; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating an intersection in his memory.

PART XVIII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Ricky Dykes Intersection was sponsored by Representative Danny Mathis as HR 1332 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Richard "Ricky" Alan Dykes was born on August 10, 1954, in Hawkinsville, Georgia, and graduated from Cochran High School; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Dykes worked loading hay for erosion control and learned every aspect of the road-building industry during his first job with the family owned Everett Dykes Grassing Company; and

WHEREAS, he has served in numerous capacities for the company over the years and continues to provide leadership and support as a consultant and advisor; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Dykes' expertise and leadership have been invaluable to the Georgia Highway Contractors Association, where he has served on the board of directors and as president; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his honor.

PART XIX

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Van Dykes Railway Overpass was sponsored by Representative Danny Mathis as HR 1333 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Jerry Van Dykes has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that he has played in leadership and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, he has diligently and conscientiously devoted innumerable hours of his time, talents, and energy toward the betterment of his community and state as evidenced dramatically by his 40 years of service in the road construction industry and as president and CEO of Everett Dykes Grassing Co., Inc.; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Dykes served with unyielding commitment as president of the Georgia Highway Contractors Association from 2004 to 2011; and

WHEREAS, he has earned distinction for his dedication to his community and profession including the Citizen of the Year Award from the Cochran Bleckley Chamber in 1998; and

WHEREAS, his significant organizational and leadership talents, his remarkable patience and diplomacy, his keen sense of vision, and his sensitivity to the needs of the citizens of this state have earned him the respect and admiration of his colleagues and associates; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating an overpass in his honor.

PART XX

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Colonel Ben Malcom Memorial Bridge was sponsored by Representative Josh Bonner as HR 1334 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, the State of Georgia continues to mourn the loss of one of its most noble, patriotic, and selfless citizens with the passing of Colonel Benjamin Studdard Malcom on October 30, 2023; and

WHEREAS, Colonel Malcom was born on December 20, 1928, in Monroe, Georgia, a beloved son of Jamie and Mamie Malcom; and

WHEREAS, during his 29 years of distinguished service to the United States Army, he demonstrated unwavering commitment and bravery in staff and command positions throughout the United States and Europe as well as during combat tours in Korea and Vietnam and was recalled many times to active duty as a result of his highly important and relevant operations in North Korea; and

WHEREAS, his final position on active duty as garrison commander of three United States Army installations and his induction into the Georgia Military Hall of Fame in 2020 stand as testament to his outstanding leadership and service; and

WHEREAS, Colonel Malcom was further recognized through numerous awards and decorations, including the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Aviation Badge, Airborne Badge, four awards of the Legion of Merit, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge—the first Special Forces soldier to ever receive this honor; and

WHEREAS, he embodied the spirit of service and the will to find meaning in something greater than himself and it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a bridge in his memory.

PART XXI

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Cameron Scroggins Memorial Bridge was sponsored by Representative Mike Cameron as HR 1335 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. James "Cameron" Scroggins was born on October 15, 1997, in East Ridge, Tennessee, and spent most of his life in Chickamauga, Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Scroggins developed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma early in life and relapsed four times; and

WHEREAS, even through his treatments and pain, Mr. Scroggins remained optimistic in life and always encouraged others to volunteer for the bone marrow registry, paving the way for countless donations and lives saved; and

WHEREAS, he was a talented football player and proudly wore #39 for the Fighting Trojans at Gordon Lee High School; and

WHEREAS, a compassionate and generous soul, Mr. Scroggins will long be remembered for his love of family and friendship, and this loyal son and friend continues to be sorely missed by all who had the great fortune of knowing him; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a bridge in his memory.

PART XXII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Representative Edward "Mickey" Stephens Memorial Interchange was sponsored by Representative Edna Jackson as HR 1336 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Representative Edward "Mickey" Stephens has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that he played in leadership in this state and his deep personal commitment to the welfare of the citizens of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Representative Stephens was born on April 4, 1944, and graduated from A.E. Beach High School and Savannah State University in Savannah, Georgia; and

WHEREAS, he spent over three decades as an educator, teaching at both Richard Arnold High and Savannah High, where he was the head coach for girl's basketball and girl's track teams and an assistant football coach for 17 years; and

WHEREAS, Representative Stephens began his career in public service and politics in 2002 when he was elected to his first term in the Georgia House of Representatives; and

WHEREAS, he was elected to the Savannah-Chatham School Board in 2006 and served until winning back his House seat in 2009, ably and adeptly representing the citizens of the 165th House District until his passing in 2021; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an interchange in his memory.

PART XXIII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the J. Richard Smith Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Representative J. Collins as HR 1355 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. James "Richard" Smith was born on February 14, 1940, the beloved son of the late Carl Reese Smith and Reba Mae Walker Smith; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Smith's first job in Villa Rica was in 1967 as the general manager for the Richard's Motor Company Ford Dealership and he went on to purchase the dealership with his brother, Donald; and

WHEREAS, in addition to co-founding Don-Rich Ford in Villa Rica, Georgia, Mr. Smith was a beloved local figure and a leader of the business community; and

WHEREAS, a man of deep and abiding faith, Mr. Smith was an active member of First Baptist Church of Villa Rica; and

WHEREAS, he was a member of the Villa Rica Lion's Club, a director of the Bank of Villa Rica, and a member of the board of directors for Villa Rica Hospital, Tanner Medical Center, and the Tanner Foundation; and

WHEREAS, as chairman of the Industrial Development Authority, Mr. Smith oversaw the initial development of the industrial park and helped bring in the park's first business, Lowe's Distribution Center; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his memory.

PART XXIV

WHEREAS, the dedication of the LTC Benjamin Fred and Sandra Kitchens Christian Roundabout was sponsored by Representative Tim Fleming as HR 1357 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Lt. Col., Ret., Benjamin Fred Christian and Mrs. Sandra Kitchens Christian were high school sweethearts at Newton County High School and pillars of their community in Oxford, Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Lt. Col. Benjamin Fred Christian served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the Georgia National Guard for 34 years as a rescue pilot, logging over 10,000 hours of flight time and flying a UH-1 Huey helicopter; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Sandra Kitchens Christian graduated from Piedmont Nursing School and worked for several physicians' offices in Covington, Georgia; with Newton General Hospital; and later with Amedisys Home Health Care, where she was also the director of nurses; and

WHEREAS, a couple with deep and abiding faith, Lt. Col. and Mrs. Christian were active members of Gum Creek Presbyterian Church; and

WHEREAS, they loved to travel and spend time with family and friends at their lake house on Jackson Lake, and these generous and kind souls are sorely missed by all who had the great fortune of knowing them, especially their beloved children and grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that these remarkable and distinguished Georgians be recognized appropriately by dedicating a roundabout in their memory.

PART XXV

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Medal of Honor Recipient Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr. Roundabout was sponsored by Representative Debbie Buckner as HR 1358 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr., was born on December 8, 1926, in Tifton, Georgia, and graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and received his commission as an infantry officer in 1949; and

WHEREAS, he was assigned to occupation duty in Okinawa, Japan, where he volunteered for the Eighth Army Ranger Company, which was formed shortly after the Korean Conflict began in 1950; and

WHEREAS, he was recognized with a Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery and leadership when, while leading the company as commander, the company was overrun after six counterattacks and, despite being severely injured, Colonel Puckett insisted on continuing to serve active duty; and

WHEREAS, upon his retirement in 1971, Colonel Puckett became the national program coordinator of Outward Bound, Inc., and subsequently established Discovery, Inc., a leadership and teamwork development program that focused on "Personal Growth through Safe Adventure"; and

WHEREAS, Colonel Puckett was an inaugural inductee into the U.S. Army Ranger Hall of Fame, served as the first honorary colonel of the 75th Ranger Regiment from 1996 to 2006, served as an ambassador of goodwill by the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security Cooperation, and was a recipient of the U.S. Army Infantry's Doughboy Award; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be recognized appropriately by dedicating a roundabout in his honor.

PART XXVI

WHEREAS, the dedication of the C. Max Toles Intersection was sponsored by Representative Katie Dempsey as HR 1415 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mr. C. Max Toles was a successful businessperson with a renowned career in real estate sales and development; and

WHEREAS, he served as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Air Force, valiantly defending America during the Korean War; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Toles joined Adrian Howell & Covington as the firm's sales manager in 1966 and later became a part owner of the brokerage, which was then renamed Covington & Toles; and

WHEREAS, years later Mr. Toles established Toles, Temple & Wright, Inc., and he was instrumental in spurring the development of subdivisions and other housing options throughout Rome, Georgia, positively impacting the growth of the community; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in his memory.

PART XXVII

WHEREAS, the dedication of the Ashley MacDonald Callahan Memorial Intersection was sponsored by Representative Reynaldo "Rey" Martinez as HR 1434 in the 2024 Session; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Ashley MacDonald Callahan has long been recognized by the citizens of this state for the vital role that she played in the teaching profession and her deep personal commitment to the education of the students of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of the University of Georgia, Mrs. Callahan devoted 16 years to inspiring the future leaders of this state as a high school and middle school educator; and

WHEREAS, she made the subject of science come to life for her students by developing an oceanography course which was used by several schools and by assisting with writing the oceanography curriculum for the State of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Callahan was a dedicated professional who went above and beyond, serving in leadership roles and working with students inside and outside of the classroom; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable and distinguished Georgian be appropriately recognized by dedicating an intersection in her memory.

PART XXVIII

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED AND ENACTED BY THE GENERAL

ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA that the portion of State Route 145 from Athens Street to Hubbard Road in Franklin County is dedicated as the Dr. Robert F. Sullivan Memorial Highway.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the bridge on State Route 133 over Dry Creek in Worth County is dedicated as the Lary Jack Moree Memorial Bridge. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of U.S. 41 at Pine Mountain Ct/Watts Drive in Cobb County, Georgia, is dedicated as the "Coach" Jerry L. Waller, Sr. and Frances R. Waller Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 9 and Deputy Bill Cantrell Memorial Road in Forsyth County is dedicated as the Dr. Jim Morrow Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 154/Memorial Drive and Capitol Avenue Southeast in Fulton County is dedicated as the J.D. Winston Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 400 and Setting Down Circle in Forsyth County is dedicated as the Lawhorne Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of U.S. Route 19/State Route 3 at State Route 96 in Taylor County is dedicated as the Michael Anthony Woodall Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the bridge on State Route 49 over Sweetwater Creek in Sumter County is dedicated as the George R. Eusner Memorial Bridge. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the bridge on State Route 94 over the Alapaha River in Echols County is dedicated as the US Army Cpl. Dewey E. Rewis Jr. Memorial Bridge.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the portion of State Route 204 from mile point 21.5 to 27.7 in Chatham County is dedicated as the Chairman Pete Liakakis Memorial Highway.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the interchange at State Route 25/ U.S. Route 17 and State Route 204 in Chatham County is dedicated as the Frances Bright Johnson Memorial Interchange.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the interchange of State Route 405 and State Route 204 in Chatham County is dedicated as the Rev. Dr. Hosea Williams and Rep. Juanita T. Williams Memorial Interchange.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the portion of State Route 369 from Gravitt Road to State Route 400 in Forsyth County is dedicated as the Bobby Thomas Highway.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 53 and Steve Tate Highway in Pickens County is dedicated as the Jeff Downing Intersection. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 139 and Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive Southwest in Fulton County is dedicated as the Maceo A. Brown Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 3 and State Route 9 in Fulton County is dedicated as the Carolyn Long Banks Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 316 and State Route 53 in Barrow County is dedicated as the Douglas "Doug" H. Garrison Memorial Interchange.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 112 and Abney Road/Willis-Howell Road in Bleckley County is dedicated as the Ricky Dykes Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the overpass of U.S. Route 23/State Route 87 Bypass over Southern Railroad in Bleckley County is dedicated as the Van Dykes Railway Overpass.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the bridge on State Route 54 over Whitewater Creek in Fayette County is dedicated as the Colonel Ben Malcom Memorial Bridge.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the bridge on State Route 341 over Chattanooga Creek in Walker County is dedicated as the Cameron Scroggins Memorial Bridge.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the interchange of U.S. Route 80 and Harry Truman Parkway in Chatham County is dedicated as the Representative Edward "Mickey" Stephens Memorial Interchange.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 61 and State Route 8/US Route 78 in Carroll County is dedicated as the J. Richard Smith Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the roundabout of State Route 36 and State Route 212 in Newton County is dedicated as the LTC Benjamin Fred and Sandra Kitchens Christian Roundabout.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the roundabout of State Route 219 and Bradley Park Drive in Muscogee County is dedicated as the Medal of Honor Recipient Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr. Roundabout.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of U.S. Route 27/Turner McCall Boulevard and Avenue A in Floyd County is dedicated as the C. Max Toles Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED AND ENACTED that the intersection of State Route 81 at Ozora Church Road in Walton County is dedicated as the Ashley MacDonald Callahan Memorial Intersection.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Transportation is authorized and directed to erect and maintain appropriate signs dedicating the road facilities named in this resolution.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the Department of Transportation; to the Lawhorne family; Mr. Bobby Thomas; Mr. Jeff Downing; Mr. Richard "Ricky" Alan Dykes; Mr. Jerry Van Dykes; and Honor Recipient Colonel Ralph Puckett, Jr.; and to the families of Dr. Robert F. Sullivan; Mr. Lary Jack Moree; Jerry Lee Waller, Sr., and Mary Frances Rogers Waller; Dr. Jim Morrow; Mr. Joseph Donald "J.D." Winston; Mr. Michael Anthony Woodall; Mr. George R. Eusner; Corporal Dewey E. Rewis, Jr.; Mr. Peter "Pete" Liakakis; Mrs. Frances Bright Johnson; Rev. Dr. Hosea Williams and Rep. Juanita T. Williams; Mr. Maceo A. Brown; Mrs. Carolyn Lucille Long Banks; Mr. Douglas "Doug" H. Garrison; Colonel Benjamin Studdard Malcom; Mr. James "Cameron" Scroggins; Representative Edward "Mickey" Stephens; Mr. James "Richard" Smith; Lt. Col., Ret., Benjamin Fred Christian and Mrs. Sandra Kitchens Christian; Mr. C. Max Toles; and Mrs. Ashley MacDonald Callahan.