[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 121 (Thursday, July 23, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H5191]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE OF BYRON CHRISTOPHER SUMNER

  (Ms. PRESSLEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. PRESSLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of my family--my 
husband, Conan, and our daughter, Cora--and the city of Boston and the 
Commonwealth of Massachusetts to honor the life of Pastor Byron 
Christopher Sumner.
  A beloved son of Roxbury, Chris deserved to grow old, but he 
transitioned on July 5 due to complications from ALS.
  He excelled from a young age in athletics, particularly basketball, 
which brought him to Canada, where he earned scholarships and 
eventually played semi-pro. His commitment, talent, agility, and 
strength went beyond the court.
  He returned to Boston, where he devoted his career to serving his 
community as executive director of the I Have a Dream program, Blue 
Hill Boys & Girls Club, Boston TenPoint Coalition, and St. Stephen's 
Youth Programs.
  His final role was an appointment from Governor Healey as executive 
director of the Melnea A. Cass Recreation Center, what he often called 
his dream job.
  Chris' true passion was his family and his faith. I have said so 
often, I would rather see a sermon than hear one any day. Chris was a 
sermon, the best kind.
  He married his wife, Katani, in 1985, and they raised three beautiful 
children: Kandice, Kortney, and Kristian.
  He also faithfully served as executive director and executive pastor 
of Jubilee Christian Church, supporting our community with spiritual 
covering, stewardship, and, most of all, joy.
  As we grieve his loss, may we move forward in service of our 
children, young adults, families, and elders, or, as Chris would say, 
our city's treasured assets.
  May he rest peacefully in eternal rest.

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