Russell Fry

Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to table at the desk.

Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to table at the desk.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Keith Allen of Latta, South Carolina. Keith was a treasure in his community and in our State, and I join those who knew him and loved him in mourning his passing.

Keith was proud to be a fifth-generation farmer and considered himself blessed to manage Betty Allen Farms. That farm has been in the Allen family since 1837, and Keith was incredibly grateful for his roots to the land. For him, farming was more than just work. It was a calling and one that he was honored to step into.

In 2022, Keith was awarded South Carolina Farm Bureau's Distinguished Service Award. That same year he was named South Carolina Farmer of the Year by Sunbelt Ag Expo. Over the years, Keith was a partner in helping me to understand how I could best serve the farming and agricultural community in our State, and for that I am incredibly grateful and blessed.

I join the State in praying for Keith; his family and friends; his daughters, Kate and Karen; and his beloved wife, Libby. His life was one well-lived, and he will be remembered as a man of duty and honor.

Rest in peace, my friend.