[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 5 (Thursday, January 8, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E17-E18]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF DEACON ANDREW WASHINGTON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DANNY K. DAVIS

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 8, 2026

  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my 
dear friend, brother in Christ, and fellow servant of the community, 
Deacon Andrew Washington, who departed this life on November 14, 2025. 
Andrew was a man whose presence, spirit, and service touched countless 
individuals across Chicago's West Side and far beyond.
  Born on February 12, 1942, in Dublin, Mississippi, Andrew was raised 
in a family guided by faith, wisdom, and resilience. After the untimely 
passing of his mother, Ruthie Lee Washington, his father, Reverend 
Bernard Washington, remarried, and through perseverance and hope the 
family made their way to Chicago in 1955. That journey--rooted in 
survival and aspiration--shaped the character of a man who would come 
to embody strength, compassion, and unwavering commitment to others.
  In Chicago, Andrew attended Crane High School before becoming a 
certified electrician through Coyne Electrical School. A multi-talented 
man, he studied music, beauty, welding, and much more, mastering skills 
that allowed him to support his family, build small businesses, and 
establish himself as someone who could fix, create, inspire, and lead.
  Andrew accepted Christ at an early age and served faithfully as a 
deacon at Ruth Memorial M.B.C. and later at New Galilee Missionary 
Baptist Church. I had the privilege of serving alongside him, and I 
know firsthand that he took his calling seriously--offering care, 
counsel, and comfort to God's people.
  Mr. Speaker, Andrew Washington was known for many things--his 
impeccable dress, his sharp wit, his strong opinions, and his ability 
to make something out of nothing--but what stood out above all was his 
deep and unwavering commitment to helping others. And I want to 
highlight two stories that reflect the true measure of this remarkable 
man.
  First, Andrew would not let a week pass without calling me--not for 
himself, but on behalf of someone else. He would say, ``Danny, I've got 
somebody I need you to help.'' Never once did he call to ask for 
anything for himself. In all the years I knew him, he never sought 
favor for his own benefit. His thoughts were always on the needs of 
others--young people, families in crisis, neighbors struggling with 
illness, joblessness, or hardship. I can personally attest that he 
helped hundreds of people, and he did so with a quiet humility that 
never sought recognition.
  Second, I recall vividly the time of President Barack Obama's first 
inauguration. Tickets were scarce--scarcer, I admit, than even a Member 
of Congress might like. Yet Andrew--resourceful as ever--managed to get 
tickets and drove his well-known pickup truck all the way from Chicago 
to Washington, D.C. At the very last minute, he called me: ``Danny, I 
need a room. I've got my granddaughter with me--and some family and 
friends. We need a place to stay.''
  I thought it would be impossible to find accommodations so close to 
the inauguration date. But somehow, through God's grace and a bit of 
determination, we found a room big enough for them all. Andrew's joy in 
that moment reflected the pride so many of us felt witnessing history. 
And in true Andrew fashion, the trip wasn't about himself--it was about 
creating memories for his loved ones.
  Mr. Speaker, Andrew Washington was a man of faith, family, community, 
and conviction. He raised children, grandchildren, and great-
grandchildren who loved him dearly. He worked hard his entire life, 
retiring from Ryerson Steel after decades of service. He built 
businesses, guided neighbors, supported churches, and anchored his 
community with generosity, wisdom, and love.
  He was a storyteller, a counselor, and a living example of what it 
means to give more than you receive. He taught lessons using props, 
pictures, and humor. He brought people roses, and through them, 
messages of hope. He attended events across the city, spreading faith 
and fellowship wherever he went.
  Mr. Speaker, Andrew Washington lived his life with purpose. He gave 
more than he took. He stood tall, spoke truth, walked boldly, and 
served faithfully. His legacy is one of service, compassion, 
resourcefulness, and unshakable faith.
  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Deacon 
Andrew Washington and in extending heartfelt condolences to his beloved 
wife, Leola Washington; his children, grandchildren, great-
grandchildren; and the entire Washington family.
  May they be comforted in knowing that this good and faithful servant 
has finished his course, kept the faith, and left a legacy that will 
continue to bless generations.

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