October 21, 2019 - Issue: Vol. 165, No. 166 — Daily Edition116th Congress (2019 - 2020) - 1st Session

[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1319]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE LIFE OF ALFRED JACKSON ``A.J.'' POWELL

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                           HON. DOUG COLLINS

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 21, 2019

  Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
remarkable life of Alfred Jackson ``A.J.'' Powell.
  A.J., as he was affectionately known by his family and friends, was a 
longtime resident of Quitman, Georgia. He graduated from Dixie High 
School and went on to study at the University of Georgia, earning a 
degree in Agriculture. Upon graduation, A.J. enlisted in the Army Air 
Corps, where he served our country honorably as a meteorologist and 
Ordinance Officer, ultimately achieving the rank of Captain.
  A.J. had a broad and meaningful impact on his community in Quitman, 
Georgia. After returning from military service, he paired his love for 
agriculture with his experience in the Army to serve veterans in his 
community. He organized the first Veterans' Farm Training program in 
the county, serving as an agriculture teacher for groups of veterans, 
and later was promoted by the State Department of Education to 
Supervisor for the Veterans Agriculture Program for all the counties in 
South Georgia.
  After leaving the Department of Education, A.J. opened Powell's Farm 
Supply, becoming a leading innovator in agricultural infrared 
photography and liquid fertilizer products. He raised beef cattle on 
his farm, Crooked Creek, and was actively involved in the agriculture 
community, assuming roles ranging from President of the Georgia 
Seedsmen's Association to President of the Chamber of Commerce.
  Throughout his life, A.J. served his community in a variety of 
capacities. Among his greatest joys was serving in his church, Quitman 
First Baptist Church, where he was an active member, serving many 
roles, including as a Sunday school teacher and the Chairman of 
Deacons. First and foremost, A.J. was a man of integrity who was well 
known for his faith in Jesus and his love for others. He lived out 
Joshua 24: 15, ``. . . as for me and my house, we will serve the 
Lord.''
  A.J. will be forever remembered as a man of faith, diligence, and 
integrity. Most importantly, he will be remembered as a loyal and 
faithful husband to his beloved wife, Mary; father to his three 
children, Beth, Jay and Lisa; grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, 
and friend. A.J. will be dearly missed, but his legacy will be felt for 
generations to come. On behalf of the people of Georgia, I hope you 
will join me in celebrating his wonderful life.

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