[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 52 (Friday, March 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E239]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE OF DR. LAMAR BRAXTON, SR.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 21, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
life and remarkable legacy of Dr. Lamar Braxton, Sr.
  Lamar Braxton, Sr. was born in Red Lick, Mississippi, on May 30, 
1934. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1967 from Alcorn 
State University, served his country in the United States Army, and 
later completed his Master's in History from Tennessee State 
University. Dr. Braxton was a devoted member of East Mt. Olive Baptist 
Church, where he served as a deacon. He was married to the late Lee J. 
Braxton and was the father of Lamar Braxton, Jr.
  Dr. Braxton's professional journey was marked by dedication to 
community service. Initially preparing to begin his doctoral studies, 
he was asked to serve as the Director of the newly formed Adams-
Jefferson Improvement Corporation (AJFC), a community organization 
serving residents of a two-county area. What was intended to be a 
temporary assignment ultimately lasted almost 42 years, with Dr. 
Braxton serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the AJFC Community 
Action Agency. During his tenure, he grew increasingly aware of the 
vital role education plays in shaping the futures of young people. His 
unwavering commitment to empowering individuals and promoting 
sustainable development left a lasting imprint on both our organization 
and the communities we serve.
  Dr. Braxton was a trailblazer in many ways. He organized one of 
Mississippi's first computer training schools on the campus of Natchez 
College. His ``Computer Camp'' offered training to 40 youths from 
Southwest Mississippi each summer, providing them with an advantage 
that helped them compete on a national scale. Furthermore, Dr. Braxton 
was instrumental in bringing the national Head Start program to 
Southwest Mississippi, establishing centers across the region and 
providing early childhood education to thousands of our citizens.
  As a visionary leader, Dr. Braxton's passion and dedication to 
community development positively impacted countless lives. His 
innovative spirit and tireless efforts played a key role in shaping 
AJFC into a respected organization that continues to champion community 
action and development. Dr. Braxton inspired many with his wisdom, 
kindness, and steadfast belief in the potential of others.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the late, 
Dr. Lamar Braxton, for his extraordinary contributions to our 
community. We will continue to reflect on his enduring legacy, which 
will continue to inspire future generations.

                          ____________________