[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 22 (Thursday, February 2, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E90-E91]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          IN LOVING MEMORY OF MARIE ANTOINETTE (NETTER) HEFLIN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, February 2, 2023

  Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 
Marie Antoinette (Netter) Heflin, who unfortunately passed away earlier 
this year. I am grateful to have grown up knowing Marie and her 
children and my prayers are with them as they cherish the legacy of 
their mother.
  Born in Rosedale, Mississippi, Marie Heflin moved to Chicago as a 
child. Deeply committed to her faith at even a young age, Marie gave 
her life to the New Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church on the west 
side of Chicago. And in combination with her seriousness in her 
relationship to the church, Marie also understood the importance of 
education at an early age.
  While attending Lucy Flower High School, Marie studied nursing and 
went on to continue her education at the Chicago Teachers College. In 
her desire to keep learning, Marie earned a Master's Degree in 
Education at the prestigious University of Chicago and worked as a 
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Marie's tireless commitment to academic 
pursuits was evident throughout her life as she returned to school to 
become an English teacher while raising a family of her own. She taught 
al the Joseph Brenneman Elementary School and later at the Walter H. 
Dyett Middle School and instilled the same love of learning in her 
children.
  During the beginning of her career, Marie met, and became friends 
with, Gloria Allen. Gloria would soon introduce Marie to her brother, 
James Edward Heflin, affectionately known as ``Chico.'' This 
introduction changed

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her life as Marie and James were united in holy matrimony on October 7, 
1961. They were married for 59 years and shared great joy in raising 
their 3 children, Fem, Gary, and Marla.
  I was lucky to have the good fortune of attending school with Gary 
and Marla where we became fast friends. I consider them as siblings of 
my own and share in their grief since Marie has left us. From day one 
of meeting, I knew that I would have friends for life in the Heflin 
family and their support and guidance has remained invaluable to me. 
And while she taught in a classroom, Marie taught me important life 
lessons that have remained with me through the years. Mrs. Heflin 
fostered a closeness with her family that I will value for a lifetime.
  I am certain that Marie will be remembered for all of her wonderful 
talents, the comfort she provided to anyone in need, and her 
unconditional love for her family and friends. I hope that memories of 
her continue serving as a blessing to those she loved most.

                          ____________________