[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 143 (Wednesday, September 10, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1748]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




EXPRESSING THE CONDOLENCES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ON THE DEATH 
 OF THE HONORABLE STEPHANIE TUBBS JONES, A REPRESENTATIVE OF THE STATE 
                                OF OHIO

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 8, 2008

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, it is with tremendous sadness 
that I rise to mourn the passing of our dear colleague, the Honorable 
Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Ohio. Stephanie's death is an unbelievable 
tragedy for her family and all of us who loved her. It is a tremendous 
loss for her Cleveland constituents and our Nation. Her passing reminds 
us how precious life is and how we must treasure the time we spend with 
our loved ones.
  Stephanie's absence is profoundly personal for me because she was a 
very special person and a friend. Many, many memories and personal 
stories come to mind when I think of her. She was a caring person who 
showed her kindness and friendship freely. Her deep, strong, loving 
voice is memorable. Stephanie's energy and strength--almost 
fearlessness--to fight for what she believed in, and at the same time, 
be open to opposing points of view was admirable.
  I can't count the number of times I watched Stephanie on the floor of 
this House boldly speaking out on behalf of Americans and her Ohio 
constituents. She was passionate and never shied away from fighting for 
justice, equality, and the belief that this great country can do so 
much better for so many of the citizens who have been left behind. A 
powerful voice for justice in Congress and an extraordinary public 
servant is the best way I can describe Stephanie and her legacy.
  As the chair of the House Ethics Committee, Congresswoman Tubbs Jones 
had one of the most difficult duties in Congress. Her experience as a 
judge and a prosecutor made her perfectly suited for the responsibility 
of maintaining the integrity of the U.S. House of Representatives.
  Today is Stephanie's 59th birthday. It is heartbreaking that she is 
not here with us, but I am proud to celebrate her life of service and 
her commitment to both her family and the families she represented. 
Congresswoman Tubbs Jones was the epitome of a citizen servant and 
demonstrated to all who knew her a spirit of joy, hope and compassion. 
I feel honored to have known her and privileged to have served with her 
in this House. Stephanie will be missed by me and many others, but she 
will not be forgotten.

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