House Resolution 17

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CELEBRATING THE LIFE, CAREER AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF BRUCE PAYNE AND EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HIS PASSING.

WHEREAS, Bruce Payne, known to many as the Dean of Gospel Radio, departed this earthly life on Tuesday, October 4, 2005, at the age of 75, to enter into eternal rest with his Heavenly Father, causing great sorrow and loss to his family and friends; and

WHEREAS, a native of Vicksburg, Mr. Payne was a longtime radio broadcaster, community leader and mentor to hundreds of today's radio and television personalities; and

WHEREAS, a true humanitarian, Mr. Payne first came to public notice as assistant director of the YMCA in Vicksburg before venturing into radio broadcasting; and

WHEREAS, with a career spanning more than six decades, Mr. Payne, a champion of the underdog, gave his life to helping people, remaining in touch with the public and highly visible in church and educational activities, as well as civic and social community affairs; and

WHEREAS, the possessor of a genuine spirit, whose eagerness was only surpassed by his willingness to help, Mr. Payne was a founding member of the Salt and Pepper Men's Club and an ardent volunteer every Labor Day at the Community Welfare and Health Center, providing wholesome meals to residents; and

WHEREAS, though he has traversed the rivers of life to now stand on golden heavenly shores, the legacy of his memory will thrive in the hearts of his survivors: wife, Vivian; children, Sharon Ann, Charles Dabney and Charita Lue Ellen; and a host of other relatives and friends, as well as the countless thousands of Mississippians whose lives he touched on gospel radio, who continue to benefit from his works; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to commend the life of such a remarkable and giving individual as Mr. Payne, whose life was a testament of faith and works:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Bruce Payne and express deepest sympathy to his family and friends upon his passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mr. Payne and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.