[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 103 (Monday, July 14, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1467]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO LLOYD GAYLES REESE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 14, 2003

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I would like to call to your attention the 
life of an outstanding individual, Mr. Lloyd Gayles Reese of Paterson, 
NJ, who sadly passed away earlier this week. It is only fitting that 
his legacy be immortalized in this, the permanent record of the 
greatest freely elected body on earth.
  Lloyd began his life's journey on January 22, 1938. Born the second 
son of Theodore and Cornelia Gayles Reese, Lloyd spent this formative 
years in Westfield, AL. Already known for its production of steel and 
the baseball legend, Willie Mays, Westfield would also become known for 
producing a musical legend as well. Whether through vocal talent or 
mastering an instrument, the entire Reese family was musically blessed.
  During his grade school and high school years Lloyd was devoted to 
playing the piano. Upon graduating high school, he was offered several 
college scholarships for his musical talent. Choosing to attend Miles 
College in Birmingham to be close to his family proved to be a wise 
choice for Lloyd. While at Miles, his self-composed songs and lyrics 
gained national attention upon being published in a national anthology 
of college poems.
  Lloyd's musical talent was discovered by the late Dorothy Love Coates 
who witnessed his abilities at the Municipal Auditorium in Birmingham. 
She quickly hired Lloyd to travel with the ``Original Gospel 
Harmonettes.'' His career with the group was abrupt, however, as Lloyd 
was drafted to serve in the Army.
  Service to his country did not deter Lloyd's passion and dedication 
to music. He formed ``The Originals,'' a singing group at the Dugway 
Proving Ground Army Post, in Utah, where Lloyd was stationed. The group 
was so popular that they participated in All-Army concerts.
  Upon receiving an honorable discharge from the Army, Lloyd came to my 
hometown of Paterson, NJ. Upon his arrival, he became the choir 
director for the Solid Rock Baptist Church. Lloyd's dedication and 
talent with the choir led to their recording on the Verve-MGM label. 
This was only the beginning of many records for Lloyd. Throughout his 
professional career, he enjoyed such hits as ``Until we Meet Again'' 
and ``Spread a Little Sunshine.`` Due to the success of his musical 
endeavors, Lloyd was able to perform on the great stages in America, 
including Radio City Music Hall, in New York City.
  Lloyd returned to focusing on choir performances after the passing of 
his oldest brother Theodore Reese, Jr. He began working with the United 
Presbyterian Church and the Community Baptist Church of Love, both in 
Paterson. In addition he joined the William Paterson College community 
as the Choir Director.
  ``Professor Reese'' spent his life devoted to his talent and his 
family. The legacy he leaves us with, should remind us all to be true 
to our talents and our loved ones. Lloyd has left an indelible mark on 
everyone who has heard and experienced his music.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me, our colleagues, Lloyd's family 
and friends, the Community Baptist Church of Love, City of Paterson and 
all who have been touched by Lloyd Gayles Reese in recognizing the life 
of a great man.

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