James Davis: “tonight I rise in honor of Martha Gibbons, who hand in hand with her husband, former Congressman Sam Gibbons, faithfully…”

“tonight I rise in honor of Martha Gibbons, who hand in hand with her husband, former Congressman Sam Gibbons, faithfully and selflessly served the Tampa Bay area. Sam and Martha were partners in all that they did. During Sam's 34 years in Congress, Martha was Sam's right hand. From her desk in his office, Martha helped Sam respond to letters from constituents, and she gave countless tours of the Capitol to visitors from Tampa. Martha served as Sam's campaign manager and joined him on all his travels, both in his congressional district and around the world. Sam served as chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade and, by his side, Martha played an important role in representing the United States during international trips and meetings. While in Washington, Martha also served as president of the Congressional Club, the International Friends Club, and the Florida House Foundation; and throughout her life she was active in a host of civic and charitable organizations. Tampa Bay residents will always see Martha's legacy at the University of South Florida in Tampa. Martha worked with her husband to provide the legislative authority for the creation of the University of South Florida. The Sam and Martha Gibbons Alumni Center located on the USF campus in Tampa stands in honor of their efforts.”