HONORING THE LIFE OF PAT McCLELLAN

On 2026-08-03, Representative Jimmy Patronis (R-FL-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE OF PAT McCLELLAN" in the House.

HONORING THE LIFE OF PAT McCLELLAN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 126 (Monday, August 3, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 126 (Monday, August 3, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E763] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE OF PAT McCLELLAN ______ HON. JIMMY PATRONIS of florida in the house of representatives Monday, August 3, 2026 Mr. PATRONIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of Pat McClellan, the legendary owner of the Flora- Bama, a true icon of Northwest Florida and the Gulf Coast, and a dear personal friend. I had the privilege of knowing Pat for more than 20 years. Beyond his success as a visionary businessman, Pat was a veteran who served on the USS Lexington after graduating from the Navy Flight Program, a dedicated community leader, and a man who believed deeply that the best things in life were simple and shared. His impact on our community and countless lives cannot be overstated. Pat had a rare gift for bringing people from every walk of life together through music, laughter, and genuine fellowship. Pat's generosity, larger-than-life personality, and unwavering love for Northwest Florida had a lasting mark on everyone who had the opportunity to know him. His legacy will live on through the memories created at the Flora-Bama and through the many people whose lives he touched. Katie and I send our heartfelt condolences to Pat's wife, Sheryl, family, friends, and the entire Flora-Bama family during this deeply difficult time. We join our entire community in praying for them as they mourn this tremendous loss. May Pat McClellan rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire all who knew him. ____________________