A RESOLUTION to honor the memory of Jay Ward Williams.
Summary
House Joint Resolution 248 is a commemorative resolution honoring the memory of Jay Ward Williams. The resolution recounts his life story, including his birth in Sacramento, California, education at Rio Linda High School and American River College, service in the U.S. Air Force from 1967 to 1975, and later work as a trucker and as a correctional officer with the California Department of Corrections. It also recognizes his family life and describes him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
The resolution does not change Tennessee law or create any new legal obligations. Instead, it serves as an official expression of respect and sympathy from the Tennessee General Assembly, directing that an appropriate copy be prepared for presentation and that condolences be extended to Mr. Williams’s family. Its practical effect is ceremonial and memorial rather than regulatory or fiscal.
Impact
HJR0248 has no substantive impact on state statutes, agency duties, or private rights. It is a memorial resolution that formally honors an individual and authorizes the preparation of an official copy for presentation, which is a customary legislative function. The only affected parties are the family and associates of Jay Ward Williams, who are the recipients of the General Assembly’s condolences and recognition.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is uniformly positive and respectful. The bill passed both chambers by unanimous votes, including 92-0 on third consideration in the House and 32-0 on adoption in the Senate, indicating broad bipartisan support and no recorded opposition. The language of the resolution itself is laudatory, emphasizing Mr. Williams’s integrity, service, and dedication.
Contention
There is no notable policy contention associated with HJR0248. Because the measure is a memorial resolution rather than a bill affecting law or spending, there were no committee debates or recorded objections in the provided materials. The only substantive focus is on honoring Mr. Williams’s military service, public service, and family legacy, which appears to have been uncontroversial.