[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 139 (Friday, August 25, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1148]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. DONALD RICHARD WILSON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 25, 2017

  Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Mr. Donald Richard Wilson, who sadly died on July 25, 2017 at the 
age of 77. Mr. Wilson, as he was affectionately known by so many, was 
born on April 22, 1940 to William (Gus) and Annie Mae Wilson. He 
remained a lifelong resident of Palm Beach County. During his youth, 
he, along with his two brothers was raised with strict Christian 
discipline by their mother, Annie Mae Wilson. She worked tirelessly to 
insure that the boys would receive the best possible education and 
upbringing she could provide.
  A product of the Palm Beach County Public School System, Donald 
graduated in 1958 from Roosevelt High School, going on to Bethune 
Cookman, and Florida A&M Universities. After college, he returned home 
with a degree in elementary education and Gloria, his wife, who was the 
love of his life for fifty-three years.
  Baptized at an early age in St. Paul AME Church, Donald remained a 
member in good standing throughout his life. He sang in the choir and 
chaired the Cultural and Artistic Committee and the Steward Board. 
Donald retired from the Palm Beach County School District in 1996, 
having served for 35 years as a teacher and administrator. For 22 
years, he officiated in children's football and basketball games. A man 
who truly loved his city, he served on Riviera Beach's City Council for 
six years.
  Donald Wilson was significantly involved in getting the first black 
firefighters hired in Riviera Beach. He helped produce many Afro Arts 
festivals and fathered the Riviera Beach Jazz & Blues Festival. Donald 
was principally involved in awarding over 2,500 athletic scholarships, 
2,000 academic scholarships and 750 personal need scholarships to black 
students, during his 51-year tenure as Vice President of the Youth 
Recreation Association of Riviera Beach.
  Mr. Speaker, Donald Wilson was a wonderful husband, father, 
grandfather and friend to so many. He was a highly respected member of 
his community. Donald left behind a great legacy to which everyone who 
knew him will always point as a life well lived. I was proud to call 
him my friend, and will dearly miss him.

                          ____________________