[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 87 (Friday, May 25, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1146]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF HILDA McDONALD

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JEFF MILLER

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 24, 2007

  Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I 
rise today to recognize the passing of former Milton City Councilwoman 
Hilda McDonald. Following a battle with cancer, Hilda left us Thursday, 
May 17, at the age of 83.
  A native Floridian, Hilda pursued a degree in research biology from 
Florida State's College for Women. However, she gave up her studies 
during World War II to teach under an emergency teaching certificate. 
This kind of selfless behavior was prominent throughout Hilda's life.
  In 1984, Hilda began serving on the City Council for the city of 
Milton and remained on the board for 16 years. During these years Hilda 
founded Blackwater Baptist Church and the Benevolent Association of 
Santa Rosa County. She also became the first President of the Women's 
Advisory Council for Santa Rosa Hospital and led as Chair for the 
restoration of Milton's City Hall. Mayor Guy Thompson who knew Hilda 
for 30 years explained, ``She had a heart for helping people, and that 
reflected in the life she led.''
  It is certain the people of Milton are mourning the loss of Hilda, 
who played an important role in over 15 community organizations. 
However, her legacy is sure to continue through the generations of her 
family she nurtured and guided. My thoughts and prayers remain with her 
9 children, 13 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren and her brother.
  Hilda's daughter, Mary Golden, has said of her mother ``the one thing 
I would like my mother to be known for was that she was a giver. She 
gave to others constantly throughout her life. And she was such a good 
mother, a wonderful Christian mother.''
  Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is with no 
small amount of sorrow that I tell of the passing of Hilda McDonald 
from this world. Hilda will be remembered as a leader, a giver, and an 
adamant philanthropist. May God rest her soul and continue to bless her 
family.

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