Summary — H. Res. 888: Honoring the life and memory of Clarence "Ed" Barker
Status: Adopted by the House (Read and Adopted).
Introduced: January 31, 2025.
Classification: House resolution (ceremonial).
Companion bill: S. 328.
Purpose / Intent
H. Res. 888 is a non‑binding, honorary resolution expressing the House of Representatives’ condolences on the death of Clarence "Ed" Barker and recognizing his public service, community leadership, and family legacy. Its purpose is ceremonial: to record the body’s respect and to direct a copy of the resolution be made available to the family.
Key provisions
- Honoring Clarence "Ed" Barker’s life and public service, including:
- His upbringing in Georgia (born in Augusta; raised in Warner Robins).
- Early work ethic (operated a gas station while in high school).
- Political career: service as state senator representing Georgia’s 18th Senatorial District for nine consecutive terms (1973–1991).
- Civic leadership: presidencies of the Warner Robins Chamber of Commerce and the Air Force Association.
- Post‑political career: moving to Highlands, North Carolina, and operating a furniture and decorator showroom for over 20 years.
- Political/civic activities such as involvement in President Jimmy Carter’s campaign and helping bring Rev. Billy Graham’s services to Georgia.
- Recognition of his family: wife Janet (married over 70 years), children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren.
- Formal expression of the House’s “deepest and most sincere regret” at his passing.
- Authorization and direction to the Clerk of the House to prepare and provide an appropriate copy of the resolution to Mr. Barker’s family.
Who is affected
- Primary effect is symbolic: honors the memory of Clarence "Ed" Barker and recognizes his contributions to his community and state.
- The resolution has no legal or fiscal effect and does not create obligations beyond producing and distributing a copy to the family.
- It publicly records the House’s condolences and preserves Barker’s recognition in the congressional record.
Procedural history / timeline
- 2025-01-31: Introduced in the House; referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.
- 2025-03-31: House First Readers; recorded as Read and Adopted.
- 2025-04-28: Referred to Local & Consent Calendars.
- 2025-05-13: Rules suspended; adopted; reported enrolled.
Sponsors
Primary sponsors include Patrick Ryan, Noel Williams Jr., Anissa Jones, Bethany Ballard, Mary Oliver, Shaw Blackmon, and Robert Dickey. Additional cosponsors include LaMonica McIver, Seth Magaziner, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Val T. Hoyle, André Carson, among others.
Takeaway
H. Res. 888 is a ceremonial House resolution acknowledging Clarence "Ed" Barker’s public and civic contributions, expressing condolences to his family, and directing the Clerk to provide the family with an official copy. It does not create or change law or require appropriations.
