The publication is reproduced in full below:
HONORING THE LIFE OF DIXIE CLEM
______
HON. VAN TAYLOR
of texas
in the house of representatives
Monday, February 7, 2022
Mr. TAYLOR. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to honor and celebrate the life of Dixie Carolyn Clem.
The youngest of four children, Dixie was born on October 30, 1930, in Booneville, Arkansas. In 1948, she would many Emmitt Mason Clem, and they would remain firmly united in marriage for 53 years until his passing in 2001.
In 1955, Dixie relocated to Plano, Texas after her husband was appointed the Band Director for Plano High School. Upon settling in the area, Dixie began a lifelong involvement in her beloved Plano community including her membership at First United Methodist Church in Plano, the Plano Chapter Order of Easter Star, Mother Advisor of Plano Rainbow Chamber, Plano Good Sam Travel Club, Past President of Plano Business and Professional Women, and as the first woman to serve on the Plano Planning and Zoning Commission. Dixie also maintained employment with the Plano Star Courier.
Always invested in her community, Mrs. Clem maintained a deep commitment to the Girl Scouts and could oftentimes be seen supporting her husband from the stands at band marching contests and football games. Dixie and Emmitt maintained a passion for travel and were known to spend summers journeying in their RV to Colorado. A beloved fixture in her family, Dixie was particularly known for creating treasured memories with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Dixie is often considered a pioneer in helping to establish the Collin County Republican Party. For 55 years she focused her efforts on mentoring others to work towards bettering their communities and to become politically active at all levels of government. Greatly admired by those around her and as a testament to her efforts to train up the next generation of leaders, she received several notable recognitions including the Texas Federation of Republican Women's ``Ten Outstanding Women Award'' and ``The Legacy Leadership Award.''
While we mourn the loss of this respected matriarch of Collin County conservatism, we celebrate her many contributions to shaping the political landscape. Likewise, we rest in the knowledge her legacy will continue on as the award that bears her name--the highest honor bestowed upon a member of the Collin County GOP--will continue to be presented to those who embody next generation ideals of servant leadership.
While many in Collin County will miss her gumption and steadfast presence, together we recognize a life well lived. Now as we honor the life of Mrs. Dixie Clem, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating her rich legacy.
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SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 168, No. 24
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