[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 73 (Friday, June 9, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1106]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 PAYING TRIBUTE TO MRS. BEVERLY GARRETT

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                          HON. EMANUEL CLEAVER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 9, 2006

  Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mrs. Beverly 
Garrett, a remarkable and compassionate woman whose life has touched so 
many Kansas Citizens. Mrs. Garrett passed away on June 1, 2006. Her 
passing is a deep loss felt by her family, her community, and all who 
have been touched by her tireless dedication and service to helping 
others.
  Beverly was employed by the federal government in the Social Security 
Administration for more than thirty years. Motivated by her dedication 
to her work environment and fellow employees, she became active in the 
American Federation of Government Employees, Local 1336, in the 1980s. 
Her leadership, character, and determination grew with each year, 
eventually garnering the position of president. In addition Beverly was 
a member of the local AFL-CIO's Labor Council, where she proved to be a 
mentor and trusted friend. Beverly's commitment went beyond the work 
place as she found great satisfaction serving on the board of the Heart 
of America United Way Campaign. For two years she provided leadership 
and direction as Co-chair and most recently as Board Secretary.
  Though she achieved positions of great trust and honor, she 
maintained an admirable and inspiring humility. With a touch of 
kindness and a touch of toughness she always found a way to create a 
positive impact.
  Beverly's trademark was her optimistic, jovial spirit that uplifted 
everyone she met. Her sense of humor and quiet grace brought people 
together even when they were in conflict. Beverly's attitude toward 
life was inspiring. Always smiling, she never hesitated to go out of 
her way to help someone in need. Because she was devoutly religious, 
she always found meaning and an opportunity to learn through each 
experience.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt sympathy to 
her sons, James and Jason, and her daughter, Kim; and all of her other 
relatives, loved ones, and friends. I urge my colleagues to please join 
me in conveying our gratitude to her family for sharing this great 
woman with us, and to accept our condolences for their tremendous loss. 
She was an inspiration to so many, and she will be missed.

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