[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 58 (Tuesday, April 4, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E438]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     REMEMBERING WILLIE SUMMERVILLE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RODNEY DAVIS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 4, 2017

  Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember 
Willie Summerville, a friend and beloved community member, who passed 
away on March 7, 2017 at the age of 72. Willie served as choirmaster 
for the Saint Luke Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Champaign 
for over 50 years, and was a longtime music teacher in Champaign and 
Urbana schools and the University of Illinois. In addition, he served 
as choir director for several community choirs.
  The impact Willie left on the community stretches far beyond the 
conductor's podium. Willie found a passion in teaching others. He 
served as outreach coordinator for the African American Studies Program 
at the University and taught classes on African-American and European 
sacred music. He also offered his talents to music students of all ages 
through private lessons in voice and piano.
  Willie first arrived in Champaign-Urbana in the 1960s when he came to 
the area to play tuba for the Marching Illini. Since then, he has 
become a well-established musician and a respected community leader.
  Willie was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and most of 
all, he was a treasure in the Champaign-Urbana community who will be 
greatly missed. His love for music and his devotion to the community 
will always be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with his family 
during this difficult time.

                          ____________________