[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 17 (Wednesday, January 28, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E163]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING DEBRA JORDAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 28, 2009

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to mark 
the passing of a true champion for the working families of eastern 
Connecticut. Debra Jordan of Plainfield, beloved daughter, wife and 
mother, passed away on January 25, 2009 after a long and courageous 
battle with cancer.
  Debra was a consummate professional who cared deeply about the rights 
of working men and women. She was an active member of UNITE HERE, 
serving as local 217's secretary-treasurer for more than 15 years. She 
fought tirelessly for the people with whom she worked, always believing 
that no matter what one's station in life might be, that everyone 
deserved to be treated fairly and justly.
  Although her professional career was marked by her commitment to 
working families, it was the love of her own family that defined her 
life. Whether it was caring for her grandson Lucien Dube, or at the 
track watching her son Tim race, anyone who knew Debra could tell you 
that these were the moments that brought joy to her life and that great 
smile to her face. While we lament her passing, we know that her memory 
will live on in her beloved family, including her husband Patrick, to 
whom she was married for 25 years.
  This has been a trying week for those of us who had the privilege to 
call Debra our friend. She left us too early, but as we grieve her we 
must remember the joy that she brought to the lives of all she touched. 
I ask my colleagues to join me in mourning the loss of Debra Jordan.

                          ____________________