6/25/2003

The Heritage Preservation Association is deeply saddened by the loss of former Georgia Governor, Lester Maddox. Governor Maddox was a charter member of the HPA when it was founded in 1994 and a generous donor over the years.

He was always a staunch supporter of the preservation of Southern Heritage and its symbols. His wit and wisdom were always welcomed and his keynote speech at the 1996 HPA National Convention will forever be remembered as invigorating and inspiring.

Lester's devotion to his wife and family exemplified the epitome of a Southern gentleman. Standing firm for his convictions in the face of harsh opposition exemplified the epitome of an American patriot.

HPA mourned the loss of Lester's loving wife, Virginia, in 1997. We now mourn the loss of this great Georgian and statesman in 2003. We do, however, take comfort in the fact that Lester has been reunited with his beloved wife, whom he dearly missed these last few years.

Please keep the Maddox family in your thoughts and prayers through the coming days and weeks.

The HPA Board of Directors