[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E490]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE LIFE OF HOLLIS HAMILTON HOOKS, A PILLAR OF THE LAKELAND 
                               COMMUNITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SCOTT FRANKLIN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 2, 2025

  Mr. SCOTT FRANKLIN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
life and legacy of Hollis Hamilton Hooks, a lifelong Lakelander whose 
quiet leadership and steady service left a lasting impact on the 
community he loved.
  Hollis never sought the spotlight, but his influence was deeply felt 
throughout Polk County. From his early work in Washington to a 
successful career in financial services, he remained guided by a strong 
sense of duty to give back.
  In 1992, Hollis was elected to the Polk County School Board, where he 
helped lead the district's first strategic planning effort. He 
championed policies to expand school choice and raise academic 
standards through the development of magnet programs. He also served on 
the board of the Polk Education Foundation, where he helped channel 
private-sector support into classroom resources, scholarships, teacher 
recognition programs and professional development.
  Hollis made a significant impact on the health and wellbeing of our 
region. As chairman of the board for the Lakeland Regional Medical 
Center, he played a key role in guiding improvements to local care. 
Through his work with the hospital's foundation, he helped drive 
critical investments in enhanced services and modernized facilities to 
meet the needs of a rapidly growing community.
  His commitment to civic life extended to the arts and public 
discourse. He served on the board of the Polk Museum of Art, working to 
increase access to arts education and cultural programming. He also sat 
on the board of LkldNow's parent nonprofit, underscoring his belief in 
the value of informed and engaged local communities.
  Hollis Hooks was more than a civic leader. He was my friend, a fellow 
elder at First Presbyterian Church of Lakeland, and a man of profound 
integrity. My prayers are with his wife Debbie, their children and all 
who had the privilege of knowing him. Hollis made Lakeland stronger, 
and his example of humble leadership will continue to guide and 
inspire.
  May we honor his memory by living lives of purpose and service.

                          ____________________