[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 139 (Wednesday, September 14, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1274]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO ARNIE F. BRYANT

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANNY K. DAVIS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 14, 2016

  Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I wish to pay tribute to 
Arnie F. Bryant--a loving family man and community leader whom I and 
others called friend. This year marks the eighth anniversary of Arnie's 
home-going on April 8, 2008. His family will honor him this month with 
a trip to Washington, DC. Arnie was a fierce supporter of President 
Barack Obama and encouraged political discussions via his radio 
program, View Points from the Other Side. Unfortunately, Arnie was 
called home before he could witness the historic election and 
inauguration of our 44th President. Today, I join with his family to 
celebrate Arnie and the tremendous contributions he made to his 
communities in his short 49 years of life.
  Arnie was one of the most dedicated, committed, and caring 
individuals that I have ever known. Arnie was a respected leader who 
worked tirelessly to make society a better place. After attending 
Farragut and Proviso East high schools, Arnie served his country by 
joining the Army. Arnie remained active for 20 years.
  Arnie's tribute by the Proviso Insider referenced him as ``Proviso 
Township's most popular social and political activist.'' From a young 
age, Arnie engaged in community affairs, working to strengthen his 
community through his compassion, intelligence, commitment, and 
kindness. He served as the President of the Proviso National 
Association for the Advancement of Colored People for many years. His 
passion for learning evidenced itself in his role as President of the 
Bellwood Library Board. His position as a Proviso Township Trustee 
reflected his willingness to do the hard work of governing, just 
another example of his willingness to invest his time to help others.
  Those who knew Arnie can testify to his absolute and profound 
commitment to his family. His love for his wife, Gladis, and his 
children, Brittany and Frank, buoyed him and those around him. Arnie 
was a spiritual man. He accepted Christ as a member of the Proviso 
Missionary Baptist Church. As an adult, he was an active member of New 
Horizon Missionary Baptist Church.
  Arnie Bryant was a great individual who deserves our commemoration, 
respect and gratitude. I join with the community in expressing our 
sadness for his loss and celebrating his life and legacy.

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