[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 109 (Tuesday, June 30, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H4323]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING LIFE AND LEGACY OF SPENCER LEAK, JR.

  (Ms. Kelly of Illinois was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Ms. KELLY of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, Representative Jackson is going 
to stand with me, but this is not his 5 minutes. He is just standing 
with me.
  I rise today to honor the life and extraordinary legacy of Spencer 
Leak, Jr., a devoted father, husband, son, brother, and faithful 
community leader whose service left a lasting mark on the Chicagoland 
area. Most of all, I am honored to have called him a friend and a 
constituent.
  Spencer dedicated his life to serving the people of the Chicagoland 
area. He carried forward his family's proud legacy and business, Leak & 
Sons Funeral Home.
  He pursued his education with purpose, graduating from Southern 
Illinois University with a degree in mortuary and funeral sciences and 
becoming a licensed director in 1989. However, his calling started long 
before that. Spencer began working at the family business at just 12 
years old, answering phones and learning his trade. He rose to become 
vice president in 1993, carrying on a tradition of faithful, kind, 
and honest service to families in their most difficult moments.

  As a third-generation funeral director, Spencer expanded the vision 
of his grandfather, Reverend Andrew Leak, so that Black people living 
in the Chicagoland area could lay their loved ones to rest with the 
dignity, respect, and care they deserved.
  Mr. Speaker, Spencer's work reached far beyond his profession. He was 
an advocate for civil rights and justice, a trusted friend to leaders 
across our community, and a generous supporter of the causes that 
lifted up those in need. His commitment to service and to positivity 
never wavered. He mentored young Black men, partnered with 
organizations to empower residents, and stood as a true pillar to his 
community.
  Spencer was a champion of the small, humble acts of kindness that so 
often go unseen. His devotion to a more just world was never in 
question, and through it all, he grew the Leak family legacy of making 
the Chicagoland community better and more loving. His love touched 
many. His generosity ran deep, and his service knew no bounds.
  Above all, Spencer was an amazing husband, father, a kind son, a 
supportive brother, and a truly wonderful human being. His passing is 
deeply felt by his beloved wife, Dr. Donna Leak, who is in the gallery; 
his children, Spencer Leak III and Emma Leak; his parents, Spencer 
Leak, Sr., and Henrietta Leak; his siblings, Stephen and Stacy; his 
extended family; and the many friends and community members that mourn 
his loss.
  On a personal level, I experienced Spencer's kindness on many levels, 
but most personal was when he handled my husband's funeral services 
almost 3 years ago.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 
extraordinary legacy of Spencer Leak, Jr., and extending my deepest 
condolences to his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know 
him.
  May his memory be a blessing. Rest in peace and power, my friend.

                          ____________________