Tommy Burks, Nov. 23, 1983
To the editor:
I would like to commend Stephen Elliott on his well-researched and insightful article about state Sen. Tommy Burks (“The Death of a Senator,” Aug. 16, 2018). Tommy was my colleague and friend and one of the finest people I have ever known. While we often disagreed and found ourselves on the opposite sides of legislation, I had nothing but the highest respect for his integrity and character. When we disagreed we were never disagreeable. Indeed, I have many fond memories of long conversations with Tommy and his many kindnesses to me. I will never forget the throngs of people standing in silent respect as his funeral procession passed. Because he was the man he was and the public servant he was, it was my honor to sponsor the legislation to name the section of I-40 between Monterey and Nashville for Sen. Tommy Burks, a tribute I thought was most appropriate because Tommy drove home every night from Nashville to his family and to his district, and he drove back the next day to take care of the people’s business. The Tommy Burks Memorial Highway honors a great public servant’s fierce dedication, passionate commitment, and honorable service to his fellow citizens. Ours would be a better world if many more people had the character of Tommy Burks.
U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen
