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HJR 83

Memorials, Death - William J. Chism, Sr. -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jesse Chism

Ceremonial memorial recognizing William J. Chism, Sr.'s leadership in Memphis (Chism Trail), faith, family, and impact; offers condolences; no fiscal effect; signed Feb 21, 2025.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · HJR 83

Summary of HJR 83 (Memorials, Death – William J. Chism, Sr.)

Overview

House Joint Resolution 83 is a ceremonial memorial resolution dedicated to honoring the life and legacy of William J. Chism, Sr. The bill is a joint resolution (not a law) that expresses condolences to the family and acknowledges Mr. Chism’s contributions to his community and state. The resolution has been signed by the Governor and is effective as a formal memorial of the General Assembly.

Purpose and Intent

  • To pay tribute to William J. Chism, Sr. for his integrity, work ethic, faith, and leadership.
  • To recognize his role as a family patriarch and his impact on Memphis and the broader community.
  • To extend sympathy and condolences to his family and loved ones.
  • To provide an official commemorative copy of the resolution for presentation.

Key Provisions

  • The resolution honors the memory of William J. Chism, Sr., detailing his life milestones, including:
    • Born July 16, 1944, in Hubert, Arkansas; baptized at New Salem Church in West Memphis, Arkansas.
    • Notable high school athlete at Melrose High School; recognized as “The Gridiron Greatest” in Memphis; received a gold watch from WDIA.
    • Military service in the United States Army.
    • Co-founder of the Chism Trail family business, the largest Black-owned supermarket chain in Tennessee history, and builder of many commercial properties in Memphis; employment of hundreds of people at the peak.
    • Faith life as a deacon, church member at Mt. Bethel Church and Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, and involvement with musical groups (Magnolia Specials).
    • Family patriarch, survived by wife Norma, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings.
  • The resolution includes standard memorial language: “Be it resolved” statements expressing respect, sympathy, and the request to prepare an appropriate copy without the designated House or Senate markings.

Subject and Background

  • Subject: Death, Memorials.
  • The bill does not impose new duties or fiscal obligations; rather, it serves as a formal expression of respect and remembrance by the General Assembly.
  • It highlights Mr. Chism’s business leadership, community impact, faith commitments, and family leadership.

Affected Parties

  • William J. Chism, Sr. and his immediate family and descendants.
  • The Memphis community and broader Tennessee public, especially those connected to his business and civic life.
  • Legislative bodies (House and Senate) as the vehicle for formal memorialization.

Procedural History and Timeline

  • Introduced: November 12, 2024 (sponsor: Chism).
  • Referred to subcommittee on Property Tax Appraisals; public hearing held; testimony recorded; left pending in subcommittee (early 2025 steps).
  • House actions culminated in favorable reporting; transmitted to Senate; concurrence and enrollment steps followed.
  • Passed both chambers and transmitted to the Governor; Signed by the Governor on February 21, 2025.
  • Status: Signed by Governor; the memorial resolution is now an official expression of remembrance by the General Assembly.

Fiscal/Operational Impact

  • No new programs or fiscal obligations are created.
  • Primarily ceremonial in nature, intended for formal recognition and historical record.

Note: This summary focuses on the substantive content and potential impact of the bill as a memorial resolution, not as a change in law.

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

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