I just confirmed that former Knox County Commissioner Mary Lou Horner passed away today. My thoughts and prayers for her son Bobby and his family are immediate and ask that you do the same.

I have known MLH for a number of years. When I first ran for public office in 1990, (challenged a 23 year incumbent and lost by 112 votes) MLH would tell me and others “Brian has been running for office since grammar school.” I would always say, Mary Lou it doesn’t matter what they say as long as they spell the name right.

When I then ran for school board in 2000 & 2004 she attended my fundraisers. While we would be some what critical of each other in public, cutting up and seeing if we could render the other speech less. There was respect.

I remember some of her tips. Always wear your name tag where so that when you shake hands their eyes go straight to it. One suggestion I told her I could never do is that when I am standing, I typically fold my arms across my chest. She said I shouldn’t do that. I told her “Mary Lou, I have been doing that since I was about 4. I can’t change that.” Although some times I hear her telling me that when I am standing with my arms crossed.

After my election to the School Board in 2000. My opponent still had a few months to serve and I attended nearly every meeting before I officially took office. MLH was Chair of the County Commission Education Committee and she would attend School Board meetings. During one of those meetings, my opponent got up and left taking all his stuff. MLH passed me a note, “I don’t ever want to see you leave a meeting early” I told her I would try. If I had to leave early which was rare, I always explained publicly where and why I was leaving.

MLH was first elected when the County Commission was the old Knox County Court. She led the way for other women to run and be elected to public office.

Go Rest High on that Mountain, MLH!