[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 14 (Thursday, February 14, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN HONOR OF SISTER IRENE SMITH STRICKLAND

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. EDOLPHUS TOWNS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2002

  Mr. TOWNS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Sister Irene Smith 
Strickland in recognition of her one-hundredth birthday.
  Irene was the first of eleven children born on February 9, 1902 in 
Hampton, South Carolina to Margaret and John Smith. She moved to New 
York City in 1927 and joined the Corner Stone Baptist Church, where she 
served as an Usher.
  Sister Strickland was married to the late Troy Strickland who passed 
away in June 1988. She and Troy had one son who passed away in June of 
1993. She also has one daughter in law, four grandsons, two grand 
daughters, and six great grandchildren,
  In November of 1939 she joined Zion Baptist Church where she also 
served as an Usher. She also worked on the nurses unit as a personal 
nurse to the late Rev. B.J. Lowery.
  In June of 1939, Irene was initiated into Omega Chapter #48 Order of 
Eastern Stars serving in all capacities. She is, a member of the 2nd 
Masonic District and will be celebrating her birthday on February 17 at 
the Ridged Masonic Temple.
  Mr. Speaker, Sister Irene Smith Strickland has lived through more 
than most of us will ever know. It is my pleasure to join in the 
celebration of her one-hundredth birthday, a milestone that many of us 
hope to reach, As such she is more than worthy of receiving this 
recognition today and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring this 
truly remarkable woman.

                          ____________________