[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 21 (Thursday, February 4, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E119]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF PASTOR WILLIE E. MANLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. JUAN VARGAS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 4, 2016

  Mr. VARGAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Pastor Willie E. 
Manley, a true leader and servant of the community of San Diego. Pastor 
Manley passed away on Friday, February 2, 2016, in his beloved city of 
San Diego.
  Pastor Manley was born in 1933 in Stephens, Arkansas. In 1966, he 
left his congregation in chilly Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to conduct a 
revival in San Diego. On May 4, 1973, he started his pastoral duties at 
the Greater Life Baptist Church of San Diego, which he founded and 
served as pastor emeritus.
  Pastor Manley was well known throughout the church and civic 
community for his honesty and integrity. Many residents in the San 
Diego community would call on him for answers and solutions. He was a 
man of great strength and courage. One who did not boast of himself, 
but rather, humbly gave his all to the people. Under his leadership, 
the Greater Life Baptist Church congregation has grown from forty-five 
to over three hundred members, giving many a safe place to come 
together and worship.
  Pastor Manley was also a dedicated public servant and an incredibly 
active member of our community. He spent several years as a member of 
my staff when I was a Councilmember in the City of San Diego and as 
district staff to former Member of Congress, Randall Duke Cunningham.
  Pastor Manley was a relentless champion for civil rights. He was the 
president and first ever vice president of the San Diego branch of 
National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). His 
commitment was recognized globally and he was honored, in 2003, with 
the very prestigious Ambassador of Peace Award. The award is given to 
an individual who has promoted goodwill among all peoples without 
respect to one's race, creed, color, religion, or national origin. 
Pastor Manley did not only promote these values at home but also 
traveled extensively across the country and around the world promoting 
spiritual and religious harmony.
  Pastor Manley was an outstanding individual, husband, father, 
preacher and friend to many. He was considerate, genuine and devoted to 
making this world a better, more just place. His leadership is sure to 
leave a lasting legacy. He will be missed by his family--his wife and 
seven children, and his San Diego community.

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