House Resolution 41

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING MRS. ALTA "JO" BRYAN FOR HER MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF THE TAYLOR AND OXFORD COMMUNITIES.

WHEREAS, Mrs. Alta "Jo" Bryan, known affectionately as "Miss Jo," of Taylor, Mississippi, has been a great asset to the communities of Taylor and Oxford, Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, Miss Jo's life of volunteerism began at the age of eleven in Lafayette County when the aggressive young lady volunteered to drive for her grandfather, the county doctor for Lafayette and Panola Counties, after he lost his left arm in an accident; and

WHEREAS, it was during this time of volunteer service to her grandfather that Miss Jo learned the meaning of being a true servant to one's friends and neighbors, and she developed a natural gift of nurturing in all types of situations; and

WHEREAS, in recognition of her genuine love and concern for all people with whom she comes into contact, Miss Jo was named Senior Citizen of the Year for Mississippi in 1999 and 2000, and in 2001 she received a nomination for the Governor's GIVE award; and

WHEREAS, at 89 years of age, Miss Jo lives a productive life, having worked full time at Baptist Hospital-North Mississippi-Oxford for the past 23 years as a receptionist, becoming the congenial voice and face of the institution; and

WHEREAS, Miss Jo exemplifies the epitome of Christian womanhood as a wife to her late husband, Leden, and as a mother to six children: David Bryan, Harry Bryan, Mina Bryan, Janet Briscoe, Linda Pitcock and the late Jimmie Bryan, and also gave of herself and her time to anyone seeking the warmth and compassion of a mother's love; and

WHEREAS, a member of the Taylor United Methodist Church for more than 50 years, Miss Jo serves as a Trustee and member of the Pastor Parish Committee, Sunday School and choir; and

WHEREAS, painting a vivid portrait of life through her youthful and energetic vitality, Miss Jo's joyful spirit is reflected in the members of her church and community as she rides the Bryan family float in the annual Fourth of July parades, portraying such characters as the Statue of Liberty, the "Bryan Hot Dog," Miss Taylor Beach, and even Shania Twain's 2-K Woman; and

WHEREAS, Miss Jo is an ambassador for community service, whether acting in various capacities as nurse, infant caretaker, counselor, veterinarian, or even driving instructor, she precociously spreads acts of goodwill without hesitation; and

WHEREAS, throughout her distinguished years of service to the countless citizens of Taylor and Oxford, Miss Jo has been faithfully supported by her children, 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives of the State of Mississippi to recognize and commend excellence of such outstanding Mississippians as Miss Jo, whose life is a living testimonial of Christian and community service at its utmost, having great influence on those who come into contact with her:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate Mrs. Alta "Jo" Bryan for her dedicated service to the citizens of the Taylor and Oxford communities and extend our heartiest wishes for many more years of good health, peace and happiness and success in all her future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mrs. Alta "Jo" Bryan and the members of the Capitol Press Corps.