[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 116 (Wednesday, July 23, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1216-E1218]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF CHARLES ``CHASE'' THOMAS SMITH

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. ALAN GRAYSON

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 23, 2014

  Mr. GRAYSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Lesbian, Gay, 
Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Pride Month, to recognize the life of 
Charles ``Chase'' Smith, who passed away on August 28, 2013, at the age 
of 41. He left this world, surrounded by his close family and friends.
  Born on April 3, 1972 in Blountstown, Florida, Chase is a graduate of 
Hardee High School and Barry University. Chase was successful in many 
areas of his professional life. After hand-writing letters to every 
voter in Wauchula, he was the youngest person ever elected to the City 
Council at the age of 20. He served three four-year terms on the City 
Council, before moving to Orlando and working as Commissioner Patty 
Sheehan's Aide for seven years. Chase was beloved by the neighborhood 
and business people he worked with. He was Commissioner Sheehan's 
confidant and friend.
  Chase moved from City to County Government where he was an Aide to 
Orange County Mayor Theresa Jacobs from 2011 to the time of his death 
in August 2013. Mayor Jacobs appointed him to be Orange County's first 
Ombudsman. Chase's personal integrity and work ethic enabled him to 
excel in the position.
  We will never forget Chase's beautiful smile, compassion for those 
less fortunate, and ability to rock an Easter Bunny costume. He was a 
proud gay man and fashionista, frequently giving his boss, Patty 
Sheehan, fashion advice. He loved wearing bow ties and decorating for 
Halloween and Christmas.
  Chase was a lifelong Democrat, but worked well with people from all 
party affiliations. He was the very definition of a public servant 
Chase loved public service with his whole

[[Page E1217]]

heart, and lived his life in service to others. He touched many lives 
with his care and genuine concern for others.
  Chase was preceded in death by his father, Gilbert. He is survived by 
his mother, Frances, brother, Bryan, and a countless number of friends 
and extended family of loved ones.
  The day of his funeral, Tuesday September 10, 2013, was declared 
Charles ``Chase'' Smith Day in the City of Orlando and Orange County. 
While we all miss him terribly, we can honor his legacy by serving our 
community to the best of our ability. He would have wanted it that way.
  I am saddened by the loss of such a valuable member of the Central 
Florida community and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and 
friends.
    

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