Recognizing Retirement of Tommy Whitaker

Floor Speech

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Mr. ROSE. Madam Speaker, it is an honor for me to recognize my friend and constituent Tommy Whitaker.

On November 14, one day before his 70th birthday, Tommy is retiring after 45 years as an employee and 16 years as president and CEO of The Farmers Bank headquartered in Portland, Tennessee. During his tenure, the bank has grown in assets from $25 million to now $850 million, with 10 branches and 150 employees.

Tommy graduated from the University of Tennessee in 1974 with a degree in business where he met his wife, Shirley. He later went on to attend the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University.

Tommy and Shirley have raised two wonderful children, Susan and Joseph, and are the proud grandparents of their grandson, Grayson.

Tommy is one of Tennessee's most influential bankers, and his strong character and devotion to service before self has gained him the respect of everyone in his community and beyond.

It is truly an end of an era for The Farmers Bank. I am so grateful for Tommy Whitaker's friendship and service, and I wish him a happy retirement.

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