Political Quotes

“I rise today remembering the life and the legacy of a dear lady, Natalie Haslam, who passed away on January 16. Natalie set the true example of what it means to be a volunteer. She spent her life giving back to our community and the people who are in it, and, of course, to our great University of Tennessee. Born in 1931, Natalie was raised in Knoxville and graduated from UT in 1953. In 1974, she married Jim Haslam, the owner and founder of Pilot Company. She is known for her leadership and philanthropy. Natalie became the first woman to serve as the chair of the East Tennessee Foundation Board in 1987. I always remember Ms. Haslam when my dad died. I was at the mortuary, actually, with my mama picking out my dad's casket. Big Jim and Natalie called me and told me that everything would be all right and if I needed anything, just to call. I also remember when Mr. Haslam and I would be at events together. She would always shush us and then just give us a smile. While serving the Knoxville community, her commitments to the University of Tennessee remained unmatched. Natalie and Jim through the Haslam Foundation donated $32 million to UT with $10 million going toward the Natalie L. Haslam Music Center. It is one of the finest music centers not just in the State of Tennessee or the country, but the world, Mr. Speaker. Natalie is survived by her husband, Jim; three granddaughters; three stepchildren; six grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.”