Bill > SJR0402

This resolution honors the life and legacy of James W. "Jim" Ayers, a prominent Tennessee businessman and philanthropist from Parsons. Born in 1943, Ayers was an entrepreneurial spirit who founded FirstBank, growing it from a $14 million asset bank to a $13 billion financial institution across the Southeast, and also established American Health Centers, a network of 40 nursing homes. His philanthropic work was extensive, particularly through the Ayers Foundation, which he created in 1999 to support education, conservation, and social welfare, directly helping over 20,000 rural Tennessee students achieve their goals. Ayers received numerous accolades for his contributions, including humanitarian awards and recognition from educational institutions like Vanderbilt University, which is naming a $500 million medical tower after him. The resolution celebrates his lifelong commitment to hard work, generosity, and community service, acknowledging his significant impact on Tennessee's business, educational, and social landscape. The Tennessee General Assembly formally honors his memory, expresses condolences to his family, and directs that a copy of the resolution be prepared for presentation.

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SJR0402&ga=114