Senate Resolution 82

(As Adopted by Senate)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE CAREER OF HEALTH CARE AND COMMUNITY SERVICE OF DR. JOHN PATTERSON OF PONTOTOC, MISSISSIPPI, AND CONGRATULATING HIM ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AFTER 48 YEARS OF PRACTICING MEDICINE.

WHEREAS, Dr. John Patterson of Pontotoc, Mississippi, has announced his retirement after 48 years of unselfish public health service in the practice of medicine; and

WHEREAS, Dr. John Patterson graduated from the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi, in 1952. He received his Medical Degree from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1954. He then completed an Internship at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, in July 1955. He is married to the former Maxine McDaniel, and they have three daughters; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Patterson began his practice at the Pontotoc Community Hospital and Extended Care Facility in 1955, where he has been an active staff member since that time. He has served several terms as Chairman of the Medical Staff at Pontotoc Hospital; and

WHEREAS, on August 7, 1992, he received the Family Physician of the Year Award from the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians, the Academy's highest award. This award is given in recognition and appreciation for outstanding leadership and service to family medicine in Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, at the 2002 Pontotoc Chamber of Commerce banquet, he was recognized with the "Professional Business Award", based upon nominations from the community. He has also served in community activities in Pontotoc and Northeast Mississippi, including the Pontotoc Lions Club. He is a member of the Methodist Church and has served on its Board of Trustees and also as a Trustee of Traceway Manor in Tupelo, a senior citizen facility; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Patterson has served in various roles, such as District Director of the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians; President of the Family Health Foundation of Mississippi, the philanthropic arm of the Mississippi Academy of Family Physicians; and as a member of the Board of Directors for the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He has also been a member of a host of medical associations and societies, including the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Medical Association, in addition to regional, state and local organizations; and

WHEREAS, it is with great pride and humility that we recognize the legacy of service of this dedicated health care professional whose career has enhanced the quality of life for his community and for the State of Mississippi:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend the career of health care and community service of Dr. John Patterson of Pontotoc, Mississippi, congratulate him on the occasion of his well-deserved retirement after 48 years of practicing medicine, and extend to him and his family the best wishes of the Senate on their future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Dr. Patterson, and be made available to the Board of Trustees of the Pontotoc Community Hospital and the Capitol Press Corps.