The bill, S. 839, is a Senate resolution expressing the profound sorrow of the South Carolina Senate upon the passing of Reverend Dr. Lillie A. Burgess of Richland County. The resolution highlights Dr. Burgess's significant contributions to academia, her role as a dedicated member of Ridgewood Baptist Church, and her extensive work in foreign missions. It details her educational background, including degrees from Columbia International University and Union Institute and University, and her tenure as a professor at Benedict College, where she developed curricula and became the first female campus minister in the institution's history.

In addition to her academic achievements, the resolution acknowledges Dr. Burgess's numerous awards and recognitions, including the Order of the Palmetto and the AT&T Teachers of Excellence award. It also notes her family life, her authorship of several articles, and her legacy of service and excellence. The resolution concludes with a commitment to present a copy of the resolution to her family, extending the Senate's deepest sympathy to them and her many friends.