Normally I write an article on business issues related to healthcare. Last month, July 15, we lost a colleague and a friend. Tim Roberts, the CEO of Semmes-Murphey Clinic died suddenly from a heart attack. Those of us who knew Tim knew him to be a fairly quiet but approachable colleague. Many of us were in disbelief of this loss. We remembered him at our Mid-South MGMA luncheon and kind words were expressed about Tim, by Worth Saunders. I thought and thought about how to put into words what we were thinking and talking about. As I pondered what to say, an email came across by desk written by Dr. Clarence Watridge, to the Semmes-Murphey Clinic family, which says it better than any words I could have written. I want to share it with you today.

 

 

"It is hard for me to find the words to get this out, but I want you to know Semmes-Murphey Clinic lost a great servant today. Tim Roberts died suddenly early today of an acute coronary occlusion and heart attack. He collapsed while getting ready to come to work and was unable to be resuscitated.

 

Tim and I worked very closely together, speaking about the affairs of the clinic daily. His desire was that we be the very best we could be. He always wanted to raise the bar of excellence another notch. His work was tireless and continuous; he led by example. His integrity was without reproach and he was the 'go to' guy for most of us. He was so approachable that the staff and physicians were very comfortable sitting in his office to mull over whatever was on one's mind. He cared deeply about the staff and considered you all his responsibility. He was very pleased to work with all of us and as the clinic has done well, he relished it.

 

On a personal note, Tim and I became great friends. We tried very hard to be certain our friendship did not color our professional responsibilities. Sometimes I think we disagreed just to be sure we were not too agreeable with each other. I depended on him hugely. When I was elected Chairman he and I met. My message to him was that I wanted him to lead the staff and I would not second guess him nor cut his leadership authority from under him. I said if your decisions prove to be faulty, we would address it, but that was never an issue. I will miss him greatly!

 

I know you are all are hurting with this and the Watridge house is too. I will do my best to be available to laugh, cheer and cry about Tim; that is what he would want us to do. Please do not hesitate to let me know if I can help. The one thing we can all take away from this is we are all one heartbeat away from eternity. Tim's eternity is secure as his faith in our Lord was unflinching! I hope you will remember his wife Jane, his son and daughter in-law and grandson Joshua, Kristin, and Grady as well as his daughter Jodie Beth in your thoughts and prayers."

 

Thank you Dr. Watridge for writing my article this month. And thank you Tim Roberts, from your Memphis Medical Family.