AL SJR87

Mourns the death of Dr. Joab L. Thomas, former President of the University of Alabama, who lived 81 years.

Recognizes Dr. Thomas's distinguished career including teaching at Harvard University, holding positions at the University of Alabama, serving as Chancellor of North Carolina State University (positions unspecified), and serving as President of the University of Alabama from 1981 to 1988 and Pennsylvania State University from 1990 to 1995.

Notes Dr. Thomas was born in Holt, Alabama on Valentine's Day in 1933, earned bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in biology from Harvard, and married Mary Dukes on December 22, 1954, with four children: Catherine, David, Jennifer, and Frances.

Acknowledges his contributions to enriching the lives of countless students and earning immense respect for his dedication, abilities, and integrity.

Extends the Legislature's gratitude for his abundant life and heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends.