[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 191 (Wednesday, November 12, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1061]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE OF LEE GARY ``TOT'' BOOKER

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. JARED HUFFMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 12, 2025

  Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lee Gary ``Tot'' 
Booker, who passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025, at the age of 
85. Mr. Booker was a trailblazing firefighter, a dedicated public 
servant, and a beloved member of the Marin County community.
  Born on July 9, 1940, in Bryant, Mississippi, Gary overcame a 
childhood marked by serious illness through the care of his 
grandparents, who raised him as their own. He excelled in both 
academics and athletics, showing early signs of the determination and 
perseverance that would define his life. He left Mississippi after high 
school and moved to Marin City, California, where he joined his mother 
and stepfather and immediately began working at Marin General Hospital.
  In 1961, Gary was drafted by the state of Mississippi but chose 
instead to enlist in the United States Navy in San Rafael, California. 
He served nearly six years, including aboard the U.S.S. Ticonderoga 
during the Vietnam War, where he worked on crash, firefighting, and 
rescue teams. His service shaped his lifelong calling to protect 
others.
  Upon completing his military service, Gary joined the Marin County 
Fire Department in 1966. Over the course of three decades, he broke 
barriers and blazed trails of firsts. In 1970, he became the first 
African American Fire Captain in Marin County, leading the Marin City 
Station and establishing its first community relations program. His 
leadership, professionalism, and courage earned him successive 
promotions to Assistant Fire Chief in 1981, Battalion Chief in 1984, 
and County Safety Officer later in his distinguished career. Through 
his many years of service, Mr. Booker received numerous awards and 
honors for his dedication to the safety and well-being of Marin County 
residents.
  In 1970, Gary married Judith Ann Du Pont. He was a devoted husband, 
father, and grandfather who cherished time with his family and found 
joy in the outdoors. An avid hunter and fisherman, Gary's annual trips 
to Colorado and Montana were a source of great happiness. His warmth, 
humor, and storytelling made him a pillar in his community and a mentor 
to countless colleagues and friends.
  Mr. Booker is survived by his daughter, Lomia and her husband Allen, 
stepdaughter Donnailla, and his grandchildren Nicole, Alayah, and 
Jordan. He is also survived by his brothers Ralph and Drew, sisters 
Trellis and Norma, and his uncle Tobe, as well as many nieces, nephews, 
relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife 
Judith, daughter Garrian ``Beetle,'' and several siblings.
  Mr. Speaker, there is no doubt that Lee Gary ``Tot'' Booker was a man 
of courage and vision whose trailblazing service helped shape the Marin 
County Fire Department and inspired generations of firefighters who 
followed. I respectfully ask that you join me in honoring his 
extraordinary life and extending condolences to his family, friends, 
and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

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