[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 60 (Thursday, April 6, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E293]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF QUINTON ROSEBORO SMITH

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 6, 2023

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the impact 
and celebrate the life of the late Quinton Roseboro Smith. 
Affectionately known by his loved ones as ``Smitty,'' this native son 
of South Carolina made the City of Buffalo his home at an early age. 
Through the many years that followed his move north, Quinton was able 
to leave his mark in our community--whether it was at church, the hair 
salon, or through the lens of his camera, Smitty's lovable spirit 
followed him everywhere.
  A student at Buffalo Public Schools 31, 75, and 87, Quinton would 
later become a student at Burgard High School. It was there that he was 
given the chance to study aviation mechanics and pursue a career with 
the United States Air Force. Upon Smitty's discharge from the military, 
he worked for decades at the General Motors Tonawanda Engine Plant. 
However, it was his passion for cutting hair and the beauty industry 
that was clearly evident throughout his other ventures.
  He started cutting hair at age 13 with his cousin, Israel ``June'' 
Blackmon. He cut hair while stationed in Alaska with the Air Force, and 
he eventually took night classes at Culver Beauty College while working 
at GM. So, after gaining his license, it was not long before he opened 
Studio 322. This hair salon was not only an instant success, but it was 
something that he shared with the love of his life, Mary.
  Smitty was a devout Christian and irreplaceable member of St. Paul's 
A.M.E. Zion Church. Quinton's commitment to Buffalo could be tangibly 
felt by countless people, not just those who frequented Studio 322. His 
actions toward others created a legacy that will long outlive him. 
Survived by his 5 children, 9 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild, 
there is no shortage of loved ones to recount their fond memories of 
Smitty. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Quinton for his 
commitment to the Western New York area and for the warmth he provided 
to so many. He will be dearly missed.

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