This tribute is to our friend" Robert Banks Elliott" an "energetic pioneer in pursuing the rights to have public golf courses in West Tennessee to be open to people of all races. He started this quest in the 1970's and did not stop until his mission was accomplished twenty years later when he gained access to the Humboldt Country Club and eventually was elected to serve on the Board of Directors. "quot;Rob"quot; as he was affectionately called by friends" was prolific in creating opportunitites for African Americans by being a life-long civil rights activist and a professional" creative" determined businessman who often took a stand against social injustices" knowing that he would be standing alone and would "experience considerable costs personally" financially and emotionally. Yet" this did not sway him from his quest to "quot;right"quot; the "quot;wrongs"quot; that had been established as tradition in the south. It was an "important principle to Rob for "African Americans to be "recognized equally as all "others in the community. "Rob went to his eternal home this week" but will long be "remembered as an astute" tough" but generous businessman and gentleman. His "woodworking abilities were top notch. If you were "fortunate enough to have Rob build cabinets in your home or business or if you purchased one of his delicately carved wooden ink pens" you also know that West Tennessee has lost a vaulable man in the community. Rob will always remain in our hearts and will be greatly missed by those who called him friend. "California Friends of"Robert Banks Elliott"April 13" 2010