Gus Bilirakis: “I rise today to honor Congresswoman Tillie Fowler, our friend and former colleague who recently passed away. Tillie…”

“I rise today to honor Congresswoman Tillie Fowler, our friend and former colleague who recently passed away. Tillie Fowler was a unique individual. She was tough. She was smart. She was determined. She was gracious. She was an effective advocate for her Jacksonville-area constituents. She also was a loving wife and devoted mother, as well as a friend of mine. Born in Georgia as the daughter of a politician, Tillie quickly distinguished herself as a force with which to be reckoned. She earned a law degree from Emory University. She became a congressional aide and White House staffer. She was elected President of the Jacksonville City Council. Tillie won election to Congress in 1992 and did such a good job that she was unopposed in her three subsequent elections. She became the most powerful woman in Congress during her time here, rising to become Vice Chair of the House Republican Conference. She willingly retired from Congress after serving eight years, though her public service continued until the day she died. Those who knew her remember her wisdom, common sense, fairness, and gentle disposition that could disarm even the most hardened opponent. Mr. Speaker, Tillie once said that "I'd rather have people's respect than have them like me." I think I speak for all of us when I say that she gained our love, admiration, and respect. I join our colleagues in mourning Congresswoman Tillie Fowler's passing and celebrating her life.”