Memorials, Recognition - Brother Ronnie Smith -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Pody

SJR 366 formally honors Brother Ronnie Smith for decades of religious leadership, teaching, and community service; a ceremonial recognition with no laws or budgets.

Signed by Governor.

#memorials #recognition

Overview

SJR 366 is a memorial joint resolution introduced by Senator Pody recognizing and honoring the life, ministry, and community service of Brother Ronnie Smith. The resolution expresses appreciation for his decades of religious leadership, teaching, and service, and commends him for spiritual inspiration and dedication. It does not create new law or budgets but formally acknowledges his contributions. The measure was signed by the Governor on April 24, 2025.

Purpose and Intent

To commend Brother Ronnie Smith for answering the ministry call and serving congregations and communities with dedication, compassion, and leadership.

To acknowledge his longstanding role as a pastor, educator, and community servant, and to celebrate his impact on religious life and education in Tennessee.

To provide an official, ceremonial statement of esteem and best wishes for his future endeavors.

Key Provisions

The resolution contains a series of “WHEREAS” statements detailing Brother Smith’s life, vocational ministry, and educational background.

It formally “be it resolved” by the Senate (with House concurrence) to honor his honorable service and spiritual inspiration.

A copy of the resolution is to be prepared for presentation, with a technical clause indicating the final clause should be omitted from the copy.

The document serves as a ceremonial recognition, not a statute or appropriation.

Honoree Background (as stated in the resolution)

Born March 7, 1946, to Homer O. and Attie Chillon Nixon Smith.

Began ministry in high school, licensed at Beechmont Baptist Church (Kentucky), ordained by First Baptist Church in Watertown.

Pastorates: Whorton Springs, Hurricane, and Bellwood Baptist Churches; later served as interim pastor at Upper Helton, Cedar Grove, and Linwood Baptist Churches.

Full-time ministry resumed in 1987, serving Hurricane Baptist Church and New Hope Baptist Church; currently acting pastor of Hurricane Baptist Church.

Education and teaching: 45 years as a history and Spanish teacher at Woodbury High School, Mount Juliet Middle School, Watertown High School, and Cumberland College.

Degrees: BS and master’s degree from Middle Tennessee State University; doctorate via extension courses at Lake Charles Bible College.

Other service: Homebound teacher in Wilson County (1973–1985).

Legislative History and Timeline (Selected Highlights)

Introduced: April 1, 2025

Passed First Consideration: April 3, 2025

Second Consideration / Consent: April 7–10, 2025

Senate Consent/Adoption: April 10, 2025

Concurrence by House: April 15, 2025 (Ayes 95, Nays 0, PV 0)

Enrolled and Ready for Signatures: April 17, 2025

Signed by Senate Speaker: April 17, 2025

Transmitted to Governor: April 21, 2025

Signed by House Speaker: April 21, 2025

Governor’s Signature: April 24, 2025

Status: Signed into law by the Governor

Affected Parties and Impact

Primary: Brother Ronnie Smith (subject of recognition) and his family, congregations served, and the communities connected to Hurricane Baptist Church and related ministries.

Secondary: Institutions and individuals recognizing his contributions through the published memorial resolution.

Fiscal/Legal Impact: None. The measure is ceremonial and symbolic, with no budgetary or regulatory changes.

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