[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 18 (Friday, February 3, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E132]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              IN REMEMBRANCE OF REVEREND DWIGHT C. GRAVES

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DAVID SCOTT

                               of georgia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, February 3, 2012

  Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart 
that I stand before you today to recognize the passing of an 
inspirational leader. Reverend Dwight C. Graves was a compassionate, 
charismatic and considerate soul, who devoted his life to service. Born 
and raised in Freeman, West Virginia, the good Reverend served in the 
United States Air Force for over thirty years, worked as a postal 
worker and union steward, and acted as a friend to both delinquents and 
school children.
  Reverend Graves felt a calling to the church and devoted much of his 
life to spreading the Lord's word. Before settling in Georgia, Rev. 
Graves pastored a church in Belgium and Illinois. He was an Associate 
Minister of Zion Baptist Church in Marietta and the Pastor of the 
Emmanuel Tabernacle Christian Church until his death.
  The Reverend was a leader among leaders. He co-founded the Georgia 
State Unit of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, served on 
the National SCLC board and was President of the Cobb County SCLC.
  As I look back on Reverend Graves' life, I find myself honored to 
have known him. It is my sincerest hope that those of us whose lives he 
has touched will go on and pass on his influence to others in need. 
Reverend Dwight C. Graves was a strong man. He is survived by his wife, 
Rev. Dr. Cheryl D. Graves and their daughter, Diana Lynette. Mr. 
Speaker, my fellow colleagues, I hope you will join me today in 
extending my condolences to them during this difficult time.

                          ____________________