SR949: SR949 Stevens, John Allen; commend

26 LC 112 3896 Senate Resolution 949 By: Senators Harbin of the 16th, Gooch of the 51st, Hodges of the 3rd, Rhett of the 33rd and Howard of the 35th A RESOLUTION Commending John Allen Stevens upon his honorable retirement for a lifetime of1 distinguished public service; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, John Allen Stevens has rendered decades of exemplary service to the citizens3 of the State of Georgia through unwavering dedication to public safety and community4 involvement; and5 WHEREAS, John Allen Stevens is a graduate of Campbell High Scho ol and Truett6 McConnell College and the University of West Georgia, laying a strong academic foundation7 for his life of service; and8 WHEREAS, following his completion of college, Stevens honorably served in the United9 States Army in Intelligence at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, demonstrating early commitment to10 the security and defense of his nation; and11 WHEREAS, he devoted 23 years as director of security at First Baptist Atlanta, serving with12 distinction and responsibility, including assignments as a bodyguard to Dr. Charles Stanley,13 while concurrently serving eight years in the Fulton County Sheriff's Reserve Unit; and14 S. R. 949 - 1 - 26 LC 112 3896 WHEREAS, Stevens further served for six years with the City of Atlanta Police Department15 as an officer and liaison between the City of Atlanta and the Midtown community, fostering16 cooperation, trust, and public safety; and17 WHEREAS, he concluded his law enforcement career with 13 years of service at the Fayette18 County Sheriff's Office, where he rose to the rank of lieutenant and served as chief of staff,19 reflecting the confidence and respect of leadership and peers alike; and20 WHEREAS, throughout his distinguished career, Stevens earned recognition as an Expert21 Marksman, achieved Georgia POST certification, graduated in the top tier of multiple law22 enforcement academies, collaborated with the United States Secr et Service during a23 presidential visit, and maintained continuous training in firearms and public safety; and24 WHEREAS, Stevens approaches life and service guided by faith an d humility and is a25 devoted husband of 41 years, a father of two, and a proud grand father of five, and he has26 consistently demonstrated a commitment to community engagement and leadership within27 his local church; and28 WHEREAS, after a career defined by respect for the rule of law, justice, and the protection29 of individuals and communities, John Allen Stevens will retire on April 27, 2026, leaving a30 legacy of honorable service and professionalism.31 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body32 commend John Allen Stevens for his outstanding career in public service, extend best wishes33 upon his retirement, and express sincere gratitude for his lasting contributions to the safety34 and well-being of the people of Georgia.35 S. R. 949 - 2 - 26 LC 112 3896 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed36 to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for di stribution to John Allen37 Stevens.38 S. R. 949 - 3 -