Created: 7/27/2009 3:49:36 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- Donna Deegan covered Jim King in the state legislature for many years. She remembers him as always accessible, never afraid to go his own way, even when it meant going against his own party, with a sense of humor that was made for television.
She sat down with King for a lengthy interview in 2003 when he served as Senate President. She had just finished treatment for a second bout with breast cancer at the time, so you'll notice on the video her hair is very short.
At the time, King was in a fierce battle with then Governor Jeb Bush over proposed cuts to funding for the underserved. King came from a poor family and he felt a strong obligation to those who, try as they might, couldn't escape poverty's grip.
Deegan recalls the exchange was vintage Jim King. Here is her report.
"No offense Jim, but you are sounding sort of like a democrat," Deegan said.
"Well I do take some offense to that, but I'm glad you brought that up, and you arent' the first one to do it. Let's talk about what I am. I am a moderate Republican and I know what it's like to be poor. While I don't think government should ever be the first line of defense for people, if someone is trying their best, this may be the only anchor to windward they ever have. It may be the only think keeping them from the death sprial that is poverty. If that makes me a liberal then so be it. I think it makes me a moderate anad I'm not going to apologize for being that," King said.
Jim didn't ever apologize for being who he ws. He also didn't take himself too seriously. A joke at his expense was always appreciated.
"When I'd go in with good ideas I would always get (pause, laughter)..."
Jim's black Labrador Retriever has just walked into the room.
"You're a dog, King," Donna said.
"You're a dog and you need to leave. Now get out of here," Jim said shooing the dog from the room.
What I will remember most about Jim, both as a reporter and as a friend is his passion, he wore his heart on his sleeve.
The speech he gave on his introduction as Senate President shows that rare mix of confidence and humility that was his signature.
"And I hope that my being here sends a signal to everyone who isn't picture perfect in stature. I'd like them to know that it is self perception that really counts. Some may look at me and see Jackie Gleason. I look at me and see Sean Connery," King said.
Read More:
King was Always a Friend of the Environment
©2009 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.
