[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 189 (Tuesday, November 26, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1511]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   HONORING MRS. LILLIAN AUDREY SEAYS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. VAL BUTLER DEMINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 26, 2019

  Mrs. DEMINGS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
someone I considered my sister and friend, Mrs. Lillian Audrey Seays, 
who passed away on November 20, 2019, three days before seeing her 82nd 
birthday.
  Always a champion for reading and education, Lillian served for 22 
years as the librarian at Memorial Middle School. The Orlando community 
could not have been prouder when in 2016, the Media Center was renamed 
in her honor .
  Lillian Seays had a mission in life, and it extended well beyond her 
commitment to the youth of Central Florida. Lillian understood the 
importance of educating other cultures about the accomplishments and 
challenges of African Americans throughout Florida. In 1997, she and 
her husband, Lester Seays, co-founded ONYX Magazine, through their own 
publishing company, LBS Publications. Rooted in strong tradition, style 
and grace, ONYX Magazine continues to be a premier magazine that 
empowers, entertains and inspires persons of diverse backgrounds from 
around the world. The LBS Foundation has awarded thousands of dollars 
in scholarship to deserving youth.
  Lillian Seays was actively involved in her community where she served 
as a charter member of the Orange County Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta 
Sorority, Inc., President and Treasurer of the Orlando Alumnae Chapter 
of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Under her leadership, Orlando 
experienced several ``firsts,'' including the first sickle cell 
screening clinic, health fair, Minerva Awards, and the very first and 
unforgettable Ebony Fashion Fair Show. Please note that the Ebony 
Fashion Fair Show raised thousands of dollars for scholarships. In 
addition, Lillian led the initiative to develop the Delteens of 
Orlando, now known as the Delta Gems, a mentoring group for young 
women.
  Moreover, Lillian Seays was a member of the Links, Inc., publisher 
and co-author of Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and an active member 
of New Covenant Baptist Church.
  Lillian Seays was a true public servant who never forgot that service 
to humankind was a direct reflection of her service to God. We truly 
believe Central Florida is better, stronger and kinder because of her 
unselfish love for her community.
  Madam Speaker, Mrs. Lillian Seays will be missed by all who knew her, 
but we are forever grateful for her service, and join her family and 
the Orlando community in celebrating a life well lived.

                          ____________________