The resolution expresses deep sorrow over the passing of James Lee "Jim" Splawn, who died on March 5, 2024, at the age of 90. A resident of Huntsville, Alabama, Jim was highly regarded in his community and leaves behind a loving family and many friends. Born in Upton, Kentucky, he graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1957 and had a distinguished career at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center from 1961 to 1984, contributing significantly to various space programs, including the Saturn and Apollo missions. He was instrumental in developing the concept of "Neutral Buoyancy Simulation" and played a key role in the creation of the Space Shuttle Main Engine.

After retiring from NASA, Jim became a successful entrepreneur and later worked at Boeing for 21 years, focusing on evolving space technologies for defense applications. He was actively involved in numerous community organizations and was a dedicated member of First Baptist Church. Jim is survived by his wife of 68 years, Jo Ann, their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family. The resolution honors his legacy and contributions, expressing heartfelt sympathy to his family during this time of grief.