[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E389]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING THE MEMORY OF MR. THOMAS STEPHEN GLEASON, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JO BONNER

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 16, 2007

  Mr. BONNER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life of 
a good man, a proud American, and a fine member of the south Alabama 
community, Mr. Thomas Stephen Gleason, Sr., who passed away last month.
  An excellent businessman and a true community leader, Mr. Gleason was 
loved by his family and friends and respected by his peers. South 
Alabama is truly a better place because of the life of Tommy.
  A resident of Mobile since childhood, Mr. Gleason made many important 
contributions, professionally as well as personally, to the advancement 
of south Alabama. After graduating from McGill Institute and Spring 
Hill College, Mr. Gleason began what was an almost 50 year real estate 
career. At one time, he was even the youngest licensed realtor in the 
State of Alabama. In 1975, Tommy founded Gleason and Associates, which 
has been instrumental in transforming commercial real estate 
development in south Alabama. Gleason and Associates has been 
responsible for bringing many companies to south Alabama, including 
several of the district's leading employers.
  Along with his significant professional success, Tommy led a highly 
involved civic life as well. Mr. Gleason was a member of the Jaycees, 
the Board of the Museum of Mobile, as well as St. Ignatius Parish. He 
was loved by many, and he loved life, particularly time spent golfing 
at the Country Club of Mobile, and fishing with the Mobile Big Game 
Fishing Club, where he served as board member.
  Madam Speaker, Thomas Stephen Gleason, Sr., is survived by his wife 
of 45 years, Frances; a son, Thomas Stephen Gleason, Jr.; a daughter, 
Mary Gleason Geil; and 3 grandchildren. May his family know that they 
are in the thoughts and prayers of so many in South Alabama.

                          ____________________