[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 141 (Monday, September 8, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1712]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E1712]]
                         HONORING WILLA DELLUMS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 8, 2008

  Ms. LEE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor one of the most 
inspiring and compassionate individuals in the rich and vibrant history 
of Oakland, California. On Sunday, August 17, 2008, Willa Dellums, the 
mother of my dear friend and predecessor in the U.S. House of 
Representatives, the Honorable Ronald V. Dellums, passed away at the 
age of 89. Although Willa lived a full and beautiful life, this is a 
tremendous loss to our community. Her presence will be sorely missed.
  Willa Mae Terry was born December 11, 1918 to the union of Willie 
Terry and Estelle Poole in Houston, Texas. Willa was the youngest of 
three children born to this union, including siblings Bessie Blount and 
James Terry, who preceded her in death. At the age of 5, her parents 
moved west to California in search of a better life.
  Willa lived in Oakland for 85 years, where she was known for her 
independence, ease of making friends, and unlimited kindness. Her 
compassion was one of strength, however, and she became equally known 
for her bravery and steadfast resiliency.
  Willa Dellums was the first African American to be hired at the J.C. 
Penney store in downtown Oakland, California. Full of determination and 
resolute, Willa eventually became a clerk in Oakland's central 
government offices. Daily, Willa was faced with the incredible 
challenges of being a woman of color at a time when the glass ceilings 
of racism and sexism were blatant and unapologetic. Rather than cower 
in the face of harrowing prejudice, Willa used every challenge as an 
opportunity to reinforce her strong character, morals, and humanity 
toward others.
  Willa, who was unable to attend college, was an unwavering advocate 
of the importance of education. She closely mentored her children 
throughout their school age years, and was a constant advocate for 
their continued learning and growth, even when they were well into 
their careers and were successful leaders in their own right. 
Throughout their lives, her children continuously credited Willa with 
instilling a sense of pride and responsibility in them. Many other 
members of our community, including myself, were also able to look up 
to Willa to solidify these values within our lives--in this way, we 
were all members of her family.
  Mrs. Dellums was my friend and confidant for many years. She guided 
me through many troubling moments in my life. I will always remember 
her as a kind and brilliant woman who was non judgmental, yet totally 
honest with her feedback and insights. We talked for hours on the 
telephone and I was always amazed at her energy and clarity.
  I have many personal wonderful memories of Mrs. D. She knew I needed 
more exercise and invited me to walk with her on many occasions. Those 
walks were invigorating. She walked very fast and I could hardly keep 
up with her. After our walks we'd go eat, and my last meal with her was 
at a sandwich shop on Lakeshore Boulevard. We both had half a sandwich 
and a cup of soup.
  One day we went to the farmer's market at Jack London Square and then 
drove around West Oakland. I drove by her former home on Wood Street 
where she raised her son Ron and daughter Theresa. I told her that I 
thought this house should be designated as an historic site and she was 
excited about the idea.
  Mrs. D. loved to travel. Oftentimes she would invite me to go with 
her and Theresa on one of their adventures in far off lands, generally 
on a boat cruise. My one regret is that my life was so hectic, I could 
never find the time for a vacation. She always wanted me to slow down 
and take a break, and it was out of her love and concern that she 
recognized I needed more rest and balance in my life.
  Many have spoken of Mrs. D's culinary abilities. She was a wonderful 
cook and I loved her chili. Some of my most fond memories are going by 
her house, eating chili and looking at photo albums. I have had the 
privilege to visit many countries, primarily on official business, and 
would take photo albums of these trips to Mrs. D. She was especially 
interested in the ones from Africa and Israel.
  There are very few people who have touched my life in such a 
magnificent manner. Mrs. Dellums was a shining light in my life and was 
a great role model for me and other African American women. She was 
brilliant, kind, sensitive, loving and tough.
  It is with deep sorrow, yet gratitude that we say good-bye to Mrs. 
Willa Dellums. However, her legacy lives through her loving children, 
Mayor Ron Dellums and Ms. Theresa Simmons. Countless Oaklanders 
benefited from her love and mentorship and on their behalf, I say thank 
you.
  Mrs. Dellums was married to Vernie Dellums for 43 years. He preceded 
her in death in 1978. Our deepest condolences go out to her children 
Ron and Theresa, grandchildren, and her entire family.
  On behalf of the residents of the 9th Congressional District, I 
salute the incredible life of this remarkable and courageous woman. May 
her soul rest in peace.

                          ____________________