We are saddened to report that retired Tenth District International Representative James "Jim" Monroe Brizendine, 88, died April 27.

Brizendine was initiated into Pine Bluff, Ark., Local 1658 in 1962. As Twelfth District International Representative, he serviced locals representing members at large manufacturing employers such as Westinghouse, facilitating mediations, conducting workshops and coordinating steward training programs.

A veteran of the United States Army 69th infantry, Brother Brizendine served in Belgium, France and Germany during World War II. He was awarded the Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge and European Theatre Operation Medal with three Battle Stars.

Brother Brizendine retired from the IBEW in 1983 and moved back to the family land in Starrville, Texas, to live as a rancher. His wife, Rosemary, said, "He was always a cowboy and always had a horse." He had a passion for raising cutting horses, and he competed for many years, winning awards from two cutting horse associations. Brizendine was also active in the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

Brizendine was always active in local community projects, including the Masons, Oklahoma Consistory of the Scottish Rite, Arkansas Governor's Education Committee and Starrville Community Center.

On behalf of the officers, members and staff of the IBEW, we send our condolences to Brother Brizendine's wife, Rosemary, his children, grandchildren and his entire family.