| July 19, 2005 - (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Sen. David Vitter made the following remarks in the Congressional Record about the late Fox McKeithen. “Today I want to commemorate the life of Louisiana’s late Secretary of State Fox McKeithen. Fox passed away Saturday at only fifty-eight years of age. “Born Walter Fox McKeithen in 1946, Fox was destined for a life in public office. His father, John McKeithen, served as the Governor of Louisiana from 1964 to 1972. And Fox demonstrated his natural leadership ability at a young age, serving as Senior class president and becoming a three-sport letterman at Caldwell Parish High School. “He received a bachelor's degree in history/social studies from Louisiana Tech University and then became a civics teacher and coach at Caldwell Parish High School. In addition to teaching and his career in state office, Fox established three successful businesses in Caldwell Parish. “In 1983 Fox began his long career as a public servant when he was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives. He was elected Secretary of State in 1987, and he served in this capacity for five consecutive terms, being elected to his fifth term in November 2003. “As Secretary of State for nearly two decades, Fox showed great dedication and devotion to the State of Louisiana. One of his biggest accomplishments was successfully merging the department of voter registration and the department which stored the voting machines, consolidating them into one. This had not been done in Louisiana since 1960. “Fox simplified the functions of the Secretary of State’s office. He adapted to the changing technologies that took place over his five terms and modernized the office through computerized voting terminals and archiving. “He was also responsible for the renovation of the State Capitol building in Baton Rouge. Fox took the lead in helping bring a building that once was in shambles and abandoned back to its former stateliness and glory. Because of Fox’s efforts, the Capitol Building gives all who visit and work there a taste of Louisiana’s political history. “Fox had a very colorful personality, a trait often described by so many. His vivaciousness and energy for life drew people to him. Once, he even broke out into song at a press conference. “Those who served with Fox knew his commitment to the office of Secretary of State. This was especially apparent in a 2004 election, when he delivered voting machines to New Orleans precincts himself, ensuring that everyone was able to vote and averting a potential crisis. “Fox was a friend to all and the state of Louisiana will miss him dearly. He leaves behind a loving wife, Yvonne, and their four children, Marjorie Ann, Marianne May, Rebecca Ann and John Jesse. “Fox and his family are in our prayers and thoughts.” |
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