Floor Speech2026-03-25

HONORING THE LIFE OF FRED W. SHAVER, JR.

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Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 56 (Wednesday, March 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 56 (Wednesday, March 25, 2026)] [House] [Pages H2708-H2709] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF FRED W. SHAVER, JR. (Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2025, Mr. Carter of Georgia was recognized for 30 minutes.) Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of legendary coach and lifelong educator Brigadier General Fred Williams Shaver, who passed away on February 24, 2026, at 91. Fred was born in Garden City, Alabama, where he later attended the University of North Alabama. For 7 years, he served as head football coach at Southeast Bulloch High School, where they coined his lifelong nickname as Coach Shaver. As coach, he led the Bulloch Yellow Jackets to consecutive Georgia State titles in 1972 and 1973. Coach Shaver later transitioned to the Bulloch County Board of Education, where he became assistant superintendent, spending a total of 35 years with the Georgia school systems. Outside of school, he served 34 years in the Georgia National Guard as a field artillery officer, obtaining the rank of brigadier general. While his professional success was immense, Coach Shaver was most known for his caring spirit, leadership, guidance, and sense of humor. His remarkable character will make his memory unforgettable. {time} 1600 Honoring Agnes West Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Agnes Marie Patrick West, who peacefully passed away at the age of 89. Mrs. West was a woman of deep faith, kindness, and strength. She was born in Dooly, Georgia, and later moved to Savannah, where she attended Commercial High School and built a life centered on family and community. For over 60 years, she was a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Temple, where she taught Sunday school and formed lasting friendships. Her church was an important part of her life, and she touched many people through her service and devotion. Mrs. West was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great- grandmother. She shared 73 years of marriage with her husband, Pat West. Mrs. West leaves behind a strong and loving family, and a legacy of faith, compassion, and dedication. Her impact on the Savannah community will not be forgotten. We honor her life and the example she set for others. Honoring Freddie Powell Sims' Legacy of Service Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of service that Freddie Powell Sims has left during her time representing Georgia's 12th District. Senator Sims announced on Monday that she is resigning. Elected in 2008, she has served in the State legislature on various committees, including leadership roles on the Education and Youth Committee and the Interstate Cooperation Committee. Before her time under the gold dome, she was a lifelong educator, retiring as a middle-school principal. It was during this time that she married her husband, Norman Sims, who she cites as the reason for her resignation, as he is very ill. [[Page H2709]] I respect Senator Sims' decision and share her sentiment that family comes first. Her impact on Georgia will not be forgotten, and I am confident her commitment to service will continue in other ways. I had the honor and privilege of serving with Senator Sims in the Georgia State Senate. My thoughts and prayers are with Senator Sims and her husband as they go through this most difficult time. Congratulating Asa High Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Asa High, director of golf course and grounds at Frederica Golf Club on St. Simons Island for his appointment as vice chairman of the board of trustees for the Georgia Golf Environmental Foundation. Since joining the Foundation in March of 2020, Asa has been a tireless leader, serving as chairman of both the research and finance committees as well as secretary and treasurer. His elevation to vice chairman is a well-earned recognition of his dedication, expertise, and the deep respect he commands among Georgia's golf course superintendents. The Georgia Golf Environmental Foundation plays a vital role in our State, funding cutting-edge turfgrass research, promoting environmental stewardship, and providing education that keeps our golf courses sustainable and world class. Asa's continued service ensures Frederica Golf Club stays at the forefront of innovation and responsible land management. I commend Asa High on his distinguished appointment and wish him every success as vice chairman. I congratulate Asa. Georgia's golf community is better because of his leadership. Recognizing Chris Crawford for 20 Years of Service Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chris Crawford for his outstanding service on Capitol Hill, having been here for 20 years and counting. Chris has been my chief of staff for 12 of those years. He has truly been a blessing to me, my family, and our office. Chris currently serves as my chief of staff, leading my office and its efforts to serve the people of Georgia's First District ever since we took office in 2015. He is a senior Stennis fellow, where his commitment to organizational effectiveness and steady leadership was honored with the Chief of Staff of the Year award. Chris is a native of rural northeast Georgia, having grown up on the coast of Tybee Island. A graduate of the University of Georgia, Chris is a rabid Dawgs fan and is rarely seen without his own French bulldog Luigi, who regularly makes his rounds through the halls of Rayburn and in my office, I might add. It is without a doubt that I say he has made a positive impact on me, my office, and the State of Georgia, as well as those who have had the privilege of working with him here in D.C. I commend Chris for his service, and I wish him continued success. Chris is with us today with a number of his friends. He also served with my predecessor, Jack Kingston. He was a lot younger back then; I can tell you that. Chris has truly been a blessing, as I say, to all those who have been around him. He has led our office and done an outstanding job. I commend him for 20 years of service. That is not an easy task here at this Capitol, but certainly something that we should all be appreciative of and certainly something he should be proud of. I thank Chris for his service. ____________________

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