[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 59 (Monday, April 18, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E500-E501]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN MEMORY OF RACHEL HOUSTON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT GARRETT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 18, 2016

  Mr. GARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to remember and honor the 
life, faith, and service of Rachel Margaret Houston. A former 
legislative assistant in my office, Rachel passed away on April 10, 
2016, at the far-too-young age of 32.
   Those of us who had the honor to know Rachel knew her kind heart, 
deep faith, and compassion for others. Friends and former co-workers 
remembered her as a ``wonderful'' and ``lovely person,'' and a ``soft, 
sweet spirit,'' with a ``bright smile, kind words, and warm heart.'' 
Rachel was that rare person who could reach out to someone new and make 
him or her feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged. Her kindness left 
a mark on all who

[[Page E501]]

knew and worked with her--whether for a short time, or over the course 
of years.
   In her professional life, Rachel exemplified qualities worth 
emulating. In her work for the people of New Jersey's 5th Congressional 
District, she demonstrated a commitment to excellence and always strove 
to give her best. Her colleagues and friends alike, both on and off 
Capitol Hill, recognized her for her sharp mind, loving spirit, and 
inner strength.
   Rachel was devoted to causes greater than herself and impacted many 
lives beyond her work in Congress. In 2006, she participated in the 
Family Research Council's Witherspoon Fellowship program to prepare for 
leadership and service in the public arena. She was an accomplished 
writer, and she also shared her faith, time, and talent through various 
mission trips as well as through her church family.
   Rachel was a blessing in the lives of all who knew her. She loved 
her God, her country, and her fellow man--and she will be missed. My 
prayer is that God will comfort her family and friends during this 
time, and that they will know that Rachel's life will be remembered.

                          ____________________