Senate Concurrent Resolution 569

(As Adopted by Senate and House)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING AND SALUTING MRS. VIRGIA BARTEE OF CANTON, MISSISSIPPI, ON THE OCCASION OF HER 106TH BIRTHDAY.

WHEREAS, one hundred six years ago began an amazing journey of a hard-working hero. On December 17, 1903, in Meridian, Mississippi, Virgia Taylor was born. She was Prince and Bertha Taylor's third child of the thirteen children they had. However, the granddaughter of slaves and the daughter of a Methodist preacher, Virgia Taylor was a conqueror in her own right; and

WHEREAS, things have not always been easy for the Taylors. Growing up in a large family, Virgia's parents did their best to provide for the family unit, but there was still very little money. Nevertheless, they stuck together and made it work. "When another child was born, we would add a little more water to the soup," Virgia said, recalling the memories of her childhood. Even shoes were a commodity to the family. She went on to explain how there were times when some of the children would have to stay at home so that the others could wear the few pairs of shoes that circulated amongst the siblings. Through these hardships, Virgia still had a vision and she maintained that vision; and

WHEREAS, during this time, college was not an option, however, Virgia knew she wanted to be an educator and make a difference. In her more than 40 years of teaching, Virgia taught in many towns in Mississippi. She finally ended her teaching career at McNeal Elementary School in Canton, Mississippi. She is responsible for shaping the futures of many Mississippians. Virgia has even taught some of her own siblings. Many of her prior students admit that Virgia was the motivation that guided their destiny and the catalyst that directed their success; and

WHEREAS, her sprit led her back to school. In the 1950s, Virgia went to Jackson State University to earn her masters degree in Education. While in college, she met and married Reverend Harry Bartee. Virgia was a steadfast partner to her husband throughout his life and ministry. They worked together to bring strength and spirituality to the congregation entrusted to their care. To their union, five children were born. She was also blessed to see her nine grandchildren and twelve great-grandchildren. She contributes her longevity to her faith in God and the fact that she remained active even after retirement; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Bartee is a member of Canton United Methodist Church, where she attends Sunday School and Service every Sunday. She has been a member of Lucy Jefferson Federated Club for many years, and has been one of the biggest fundraisers for the annual scholarship project. Several years ago, she was chosen Woman of the Year for her district by the Federated Club. Not to mention, she is a member of the Retired Teachers Association. During the 1960s, she was an active participant in the Civil Rights Movement and had the opportunity of meeting Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., during his visit to Canton. She is the recipient of numerous awards for her outstanding achievements. Mrs. Bartee exceeds amazing and surpasses the norm; and

WHEREAS, during her lifetime everyone who has had the honor of meeting her has been blessed by being in her presence and gaining the wisdom and knowledge that she offers. We join her descendants and are indeed blessed to share life with her:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby recognize and salute Mrs. Virgia Bartee of Canton, Mississippi, on the occasion of her 106th birthday, and extend our best wishes on this auspicious event.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Mrs. Bartee and her family, forwarded to the Mayor and Board of Aldermen of Canton and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.