Tom McRae, who was deeply rooted in an affluent Arkansas political family, graduated from El Dorado High School in 1956, and went on to earn a History degree from the University of Arkansas and a law degree from the University of Arkansas Law School. Upon graduation, he volunteered to go to Nepal with the Peace Corps in 1964, a 2-year experience that would give him a new perspective on society and allow him to perform extensive social work on behalf of Nepalese villagers and farmers. 

Tom became a household name in 1990 when he ran in the Democratic primaries against Governor Bill Clinton in the face of overwhelming odds. He finished a strong second in a field of six, proving that odds are no detriment to a steadfast spirit and determination to fight for the causes and ideals in which you believe. It was a fight he would continue years later by directing nonprofit programs in Mississippi and Kentucky, helping the rural poor get loans and find jobs. 

Throughout his life, Tom distinguished himself through a sustained commitment to his ideals and his community. He devoted himself to uplifting society by helping those less fortunate. His character is an example of the values we, as parents, teachers, community members, and legislators, hope to instill in our next generation. Bill Clinton spoke for many of us when he said, ``I respected, admired and liked Tom McRae, and I will be forever grateful for the lifetime of service he gave to Arkansas.'' 

I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife, Christine, his children, Catherine and Thomas, as well as all of those who knew and loved him. Although he may no longer be with us, his spirit and his legacy live on in the examples he set and the many lives he touched.