[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 112 (Wednesday, July 12, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1421]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    TRIBUTE TO GERALD MELLVYN SIMMS

                                 ______


                        HON. WILLIAM J. MARTINI

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 12, 1995
  Mr. MARTINI. I rise to pay tribute to an extraordinary person who 
passed away over the weekend, Gerald Mellvyn Simms of Passaic, NJ.
  Gerry's departure has left an unfillable void in his community, and a 
deep sorrow in the hearts of his loved ones. He was an invaluable 
citizen and a good friend, and to say he will be missed would 
understate his importance in those lives he touched.
  Gerry was a fixture in my hometown of Passaic. A lifelong Republican, 
he was a staunch defender of civil rights and equal opportunity. Gerry 
enjoyed many different roles in Passaic City government, and was even 
the first member of the black community to run for mayor. Although he 
lost his bid for office, he remained committed to helping the city he 
loved, and stayed active in city affairs until the end of his life. But 
he shared himself with the city of Passaic in so many more ways than 
through work in the public sector. As both a member of the Bethel 
A.M.E. Church and owner of Kelly Construction Co., Gerry Simms 
exemplified the highest qualities of civic virtue. Indeed, this was a 
unique gentleman who demonstrated to everyone how an individual should 
conduct oneself in both private and public life.
  On a personal note, I will always cherish the special relationship 
forged with Gerry with respect to our family history. I can still 
recall with great warmth the day I met him at 663 Main Avenue in 
Passaic nearly 20 years ago when he sought me out in order to lend his 
help as I was beginning my law career. That day resumed the special and 
treasured relationship long established by Gerry's family and mine 
which we mutually cherished. His counsel and loyal friendship will be 
fondly remembered.
  In a very real sense, with the loss of Gerry, Passaic loses a hero; 
here was a hometown boy who not only made good, but made life better 
for thousands of others as well. In an era in which this city and this 
Nation searched desperately for role models, Gerry Simms offered 
himself as a cut above the rest. To all that watched, he was a model to 
emulate for young and old alike. He was a man who knew the meaning of 
the words compassion and respect, and exuded them in everything he did. 
We were blessed to have been touched by his grace, and will never 
forget his warmth and compassion. My deepest condolences to his mother, 
Mrs. Marion West, and to all those who loved and knew him. While Gerry 
has passed on, his life has left an indelible imprint on our hearts, an 
imprint that will provide us the strength to live our own lives in a 
more meaningful and fulfilling way.


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