[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 147 (Friday, September 20, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E938]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  CELEBRATING THE INCREDIBLE LIFE OF IRENE ``QUEEN OF ALGIERS'' BURRUS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. TROY A. CARTER

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 20, 2024

  Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. 
Irene Burrus, a woman known as a dear friend, mentor and confidant to 
many, and most notably, a cornerstone of the Algiers community, my 
hometown and part of the Congressional District I represent, whose 
influence was felt far and wide. Her commitment to service was evident 
through her extensive involvement in various organizations.
  Irene Burrus, lovingly known as ``Ms. Irene'' and the ``Queen of 
Algiers,'' passed away peacefully on August 23, 2024, at the remarkable 
age of 101. Born on March 31, 1923, Irene's life journey began on a 
humble farm in rural Mississippi, where she was raised by her parents, 
Annis and Alonzo Harrison, alongside her four siblings: Ellie, Jack, 
Ruby, and Imogene. The Great Depression deeply influenced her 
upbringing, instilling in her a profound resilience and an unwavering 
sense of community that would define her life. Irene's life was a 
testament to devotion--to her family, her community, and the countless 
causes that she championed with passion and dedication.
  The year she turned 100, she proudly served as the Grand Marshall of 
The Algiers Mardi Gras and rode in the 2024 Krewe of NOMTOC. Irene was 
known for her sharp mind and quick sense of humor, qualities that 
endeared her to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She often 
remarked, ``You've got to leave a place better than you found it or 
we're really in trouble. I hope I've helped.'' Her life embodied this 
philosophy, as she worked tirelessly to uplift her community and 
inspire others to do the same through her active participation and 
generosity.
  As a key figure in the Kiwanis Club, she generously contributed her 
time and resources to numerous other causes. She served as Vice 
President of the Board of Welcome Neighbors and was actively involved 
in the Kiwanis Club, Tall Timbers Garden Club, and the Algiers Charter 
School Association for Fundraising. She was a member of the Algiers 
Police Advisory Group. She not only organized and funded Mardi Gras 
breakfasts for local officers, but also Irene's dedication also 
extended to the Military Wives Organization, the Old Aurora 
Neighborhood Association's Night Out Against Crime, Save Algiers 
Courthouse, Chalmette Refining's Westbank Citizens' Advisory Council 
and the Historic New Orleans French Quarter Easter Parade. As a member 
of the Algiers Republican Women, she tirelessly worked to support and 
raise awareness for local initiatives.
  She was a cherished daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and 
great-grandmother. Irene is survived by her loving daughter, Marilyn 
Mislove, and her son-in-law, Michael. Her legacy continues through her 
grandchildren: John Crowe (wife Kelly), Rebecca Crowe Claunch (husband 
Charles), Alan Mislove (wife Talmadge), and Caroline Mislove, as well 
as her great-grandchildren Ivy, Courtney, Ava, Abby, Sarah, Reeves, 
Evan, and Mira.
  Preceding her in death were her first husband, Arvid Dahl, her second 
husband, John C. Burrus, and her beloved daughter, Marcia Dahl Crowe.
  I am so blessed and grateful to have known this phenomenal woman, a 
real Trailblazer and Leader, my true friend. Ms. Irene will forever be 
remembered for her indomitable spirit, her tireless dedication to her 
community, and her boundless love for her family. Her legacy of 
kindness, leadership, and service will continue to inspire all who were 
fortunate enough to know her. I will certainly miss my dear friend.

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