[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 103 (Thursday, September 7, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1432]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                 HONORING THE LIFE OF MR. JERRY RAYMOND

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE STABENOW

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 7, 2000

  Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the lifetime 
achievements of Mr. Jerry Raymond who passed away in January, 2000 and 
offer my sincere condolences to his family.
  Jerry Raymond was a remarkable man whose many contributions to Wayne 
County, the labor movement and the City of Livonia will be long 
remembered. He was a 49 year resident of Livonia and served on the City 
Council from 1966 to 1980. Always cognizant of the needs of others, his 
favorite saying was ``People come first.'' He advocated for housing for 
seniors before it was the popular thing to do. His sensitivity to 
others is undoubtedly why he was re-elected to office so many times.
  There are many other fascinating things that are important to know 
about this special man. He quit high school after his mother died and 
his father lost his job. As he moved around the country looking for a 
job, he started getting involved in strikes and joined the cause of 
working men and women. He became a union activist and his leadership in 
the labor movement brought him national recognition. Despite his many 
achievements, Jerry felt something was missing as he watched other 
family members pursue a higher education. Although he did not have a 
high school diploma, he enrolled in law school. He graduated Cum Laude 
and was honored by being elected President of his class. He opened a 
law practice called Jerry Raymond and Associates in Livonia and 
practiced law until shortly before his death.
  Jerry was a special friend, role-model and mentor to many including 
myself. He was very involved in his community and in democratic 
politics. He is missed by everyone whose life he touched, but his 
spirit lives on in our memories and in the legacy he left behind.

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