Bill > HJR0083

This resolution honors the memory of William J. Chism, Sr., a prominent African American businessman, veteran, and community leader from Memphis, Tennessee. Born in 1944 in Arkansas, Chism was a standout high school football player who later served in the United States Army and became a successful entrepreneur alongside his brothers, establishing the largest Black-owned supermarket chain in Tennessee history called "Chism Trail". The resolution highlights his significant community impact, including employing up to 300 people at the peak of his business, and his deep commitment to family, faith, and entrepreneurship. Chism was known for his love of the outdoors, earning him the nickname "Wild Bill", and was a devoted family patriarch survived by his wife of 47 years, six children, thirteen grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and ten siblings. The resolution recognizes his lifetime of purpose, community service, and inspirational leadership, and extends sympathy to his family while formally acknowledging his enduring legacy in Memphis and beyond. The document also includes a procedural provision for preparing an official copy of the resolution for presentation to his family.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HJR0083&ga=114