[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 33 (Wednesday, February 25, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E376]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          MRS. IRENE DAY-COMER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 25, 2009

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to take this 
time to remember one of Northwest Indiana's most talented and most 
admired citizens, Irene Day-Comer. An extraordinary soloist, Irene's 
serene vocals touched the hearts and lifted the spirits of countless 
residents of Northwest Indiana and beyond, and through her remarkable 
gift, she served her community in a way that very few people can. 
Unfortunately, Mrs. Day-Comer passed away on Monday, February 2, 2009, 
at the age of 86, but her music will forever remain in the hearts and 
spirits of those fortunate enough to have heard her sing.
  Born in the rural farming community of Marks, Mississippi, Irene's 
family, like many African American families at the time, fled the South 
in search of better opportunities in more industrialized areas of the 
country. After arriving in Northwest Indiana, Irene's family made their 
home in East Chicago, Indiana. Born into a family of deep spiritual 
faith and religious conviction, it was at Antioch Baptist Church in 
East Chicago where Mrs. Day-Comer's extraordinary gift and love for 
sacred music would emerge. At Antioch, she was a member of the Junior 
Red Circle and Baptist Training Circle and was active in various choirs 
and ensembles. During her younger years, Irene attended Columbus 
Elementary School and Washington High School, where she was a member of 
the highly esteemed Paul Robeson Glee Club. Encouraged by her mentor 
and pastor, the late Dr. Vincent McCutcheon, Mrs. Day-Comer went on to 
study at the Moody Bible Institute and the American Baptist Theological 
Seminary Extension in Chicago.
  By the age of eight years old, Irene's passion for music and 
unquestionable talent was already clear to those who heard her pristine 
voice. This passion would carry on to her adult life, where she would 
continue to serve her community through her songs of faith, hope, and 
inspiration. She gained acclaim from the likes of Oprah Winfrey, who 
heard her sing after speaking at Antioch in 1981. After this, Reverend 
McCutcheon and a group of local churches were able to raise enough 
funds for Irene and pianist, Marilyn Hairston, to record her historic 
debut album, Irene Day--He's Everywhere, in 1982. This outstanding 
compilation of sacred songs allowed even more people the joyous 
opportunity to hear her exceptional voice, and after being re-released 
in 2002 in the wake of the tragedy of September 11, an entirely new 
generation was introduced to her uplifting spirit.
  A woman whose life and talent spread far beyond the borders of 
Northwest Indiana, Mrs. Day-Comer received many accolades for her 
artistry and her service to the community. In 1982, Irene was honored 
by the City of East Chicago for her contributions to the community, and 
July 8 was proclaimed Irene Day Day. In 1985, she was recipient of the 
prestigious Monroe-Master Dedication Commission Award bestowed by the 
African Methodist Episcopal Church for her efforts to aid and inspire 
others. Irene was also honored nationally in 1982 following the release 
of her album with commendations from the Congressional Black Caucus, 
the late Congressman Adam Benjamin, Jr., Senator Richard Lugar, and 
former Vice President Dan Quayle.
  Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in honoring a great American artist and citizen, 
Mrs. Irene Day-Comer, for sharing her outstanding talents with the 
people of Indiana's First Congressional District and beyond. Irene Day-
Comer's remarkable gift brought joy and hope to all who listened to her 
songs, and I ask that you join me in remembering her today.

                          ____________________