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SJR 181

Memorials, Death - R.W. Groom III -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Yager

Memorial resolution honoring R.W. Groom III; the Tennessee General Assembly expresses condolences and notes his 40 years teaching and community service, issuing a ceremonial copy.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · SJR 181

Summary: Senate Joint Resolution 181 (SJR 181) — Memorials, Death - R.W. Groom III -

Overview

SJR 181 is a ceremonial Senate Joint Resolution recognizing and honoring the memory of R.W. Groom III of Nashville. The measure expresses condolences to his family and friends and directs the preparation of an appropriate copy of the resolution. It is a non-binding, commemorative tribute without fiscal impact or regulatory changes.

Purpose and Intent

  • To honor the life, character, and contributions of R.W. Groom III.
  • To acknowledge Groom’s impact as an educator, community member, and family man.
  • To extend sympathy to his wife, children, and other loved ones.

Key Provisions

  • The resolution states the General Assembly’s sadness at Groom’s passing and highlights his “creative soul,” humility, and dedication to improving the well-being of others.
  • It recounts Groom’s life journey, including:
    • Birth in Lebanon, Tennessee; upbringing in El Paso, Texas, and Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
    • Education: bachelor’s in English from the University of Tennessee at Martin; Master of English and Education Specialist degree from Middle Tennessee State University.
    • Forty years of teaching English (grades 7–12) at multiple schools; involvement in tennis, band, theater, student leadership, and extracurricular activities.
    • Community service and faith: church involvement as a deacon, Habitat for Humanity, Room in the Inn, Outreach Committee, Sunday School, mission trips, and Habitat-related work.
    • Family: wife Pamela Jones Groom, son Taylor Groom, daughter Anna Kathryn Groom, and extended family.
  • The resolution expresses sympathy and requests an appropriate copy be prepared, with a formalization clause about how the copy should appear.

Who/What Is Affected

  • Primarily honors R.W. Groom III and acknowledges his family and communities connected to his teaching and service.
  • The General Assembly as the body issuing the tribute.
  • No new laws, programs, or funding are created; the act is strictly ceremonial.

Procedural and Timeline Highlights

  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Key actions and passage:
    • February 27, 2025: Passed first consideration
    • March 3–6, 2025: Senate actions, including placement on consent calendar and passage
    • March 10–11, 2025: Concurrence and enrollment activities
    • March 12, 2025: Transmitted to Governor; signed by House Speaker and Senate Speaker
    • March 13, 2025: Signed by Governor
  • Sponsor: Senate sponsor is Yager
  • Status: Signed by Governor; effective as a memorial expression of the General Assembly

Practical Impact

  • Formal acknowledgment of Groom’s life and service.
  • A ceremonial document to be presented to or shared with Groom’s family and affiliated communities.
  • No legislative or regulatory changes resulting from the measure.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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