[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 177 (Friday, November 18, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2103]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      ON THE OCCASION OF MARY LOUISE PETERS-HUGHES' 100th BIRTHDAY

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                          HON. GARY C. PETERS

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 18, 2011

  Mr. PETERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today for the most special purpose 
and privilege of honoring the life of Mary Louise Peters-Hughes on the 
occasion of her 100th birthday.
  Mary Louise Peters-Hughes is a most remarkable woman, having lived 
through 100 years of the most changeable times in human history; she is 
also my aunt, big sister to my late father Herb, and the matriarch of 
our family.
  Born on September 20, 1911, Mary came of age amidst the burgeoning 
era of women's rights. Her achievements embodied the kind of progress 
and leadership envisioned by that movement; throughout her life, Mary 
has held herself to a high standard of achievement and leadership.
  In 1929, she graduated valedictorian from Rochester High School, 
after serving in the National Honor Society and as president of her 
senior class. Mary matriculated to Alma College, during a time when 
only 10% of young people sought higher education. Mary studied English 
and Latin and continued to be a leader among her peers by serving as 
President of the Wright Ladies Hall and member of the Philamathion 
Ladies Social Society. Within four years, she graduated with a near-
perfect grade point average. Finally, before embarking upon a career in 
teaching, Aunt Mary obtained her Master's Degree from the University of 
Michigan.
  Aunt Mary was a devoted teacher, always encouraging her students to 
fulfill their best potentials. She did the same with family, too. Ever 
the supportive big sister, she sent my father money every week as he 
worked to get his own degree from her alma mater, Alma College. My 
father often talked of his deep gratitude for her vital support of him 
during those lean depression. After marrying my uncle, Halley Hughes, 
Mary took a leave from her career and devoted herself full time to 
family and raising her three sons: Bob, Dick, and Jim.
  Later in life, Aunt Mary returned to her beloved career and for 
another 21 years. And as a passionate educator, Aunt Mary joined both 
the National Education Association and Delta Kappa Gamma to enhance the 
status and fight for the rights of her fellow teachers across Michigan 
and the Nation.
  Mr. Speaker, though she is my beloved aunt, by any objective measure 
Mary Louise Peters-Hughes has lived an exceptional life, marked by 
academic excellence, an admirable professional career and a most 
compassionate and strong family life. Her story and path is truly one 
we can all look to as an example for our own lives. I, my wife and 
children and Mary's three children, six grandchildren and nine great 
grandchildren are grateful for the 100 years she has lived and the 
lessons and love she has shared with each of us. We wish for many more 
lived in health and happiness.

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