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AJC.com > Legislature > Georgia Beat > Archives > 2005 > February > 02 > Entry
Senate honors longtime member Gillis
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Georgia Senate took a break from its usual business for a few minutes Wednesday morning to honor former state Sen. Hugh Gillis (D-Soperton).
When he retired in July, Gillis, who attended today’s session, was the nation’s longest serving state legislator. He represented his Middle Georgia district for more than 55 years.
Gov. Sonny Perdue joined the members of the Senate in recognizing Gillis’ long and storied career in public service.
Perdue began his short remarks with a joke to Gillis: “I thought you had to die to get those type of accolades.�
The Governor then praised Gillis’ years of service at the state Capitol and said, “We are delighted to see you thriving in retirement and we wish you well.â€?
Perdue appointed Gillis to a seat on the Georgia Ports Authority last summer.
Gillis spoke fondly of his years in Georgia government and thanked his former colleagues for recognizing him.
“It really is an honor and privilege for me to be here today,� Gillis said.
Sen. Ross Tolleson (R-Perry) introduced the resolution honoring Gillis and said he rose above party politics.
Sen. Terrell Starr (D-Jonesboro) said that Gillis was his mentor for many years. The two politicians sat next to each other in the chamber and shared an office, Starr said. When Gillis retired, Starr moved into his seat and now has the distinction of being the senior member of the Georgia Senate.
Starr, looking at his seat, said: “I feel like I am sitting in hallowed ground over there.”
After a few more announcements, the Senate took up two health-care related bills.
Senate Bill 48, a measure creating a Renal Dialysis Advisory Council and Senate Bill 51, a measure to formalize supervision of clinical technicians, both passed without debate.
The Senate adjourned and meets Thursday at 10 a.m.
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