[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 6]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 8771-8772]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                        KATHRYN ELLIOT WILLIAMS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARTHA ROBY

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, June 8, 2012

  Mrs. ROBY. Mr. Speaker, the strength of a community is derived from 
leaders who contribute selfless gifts in an effort to benefit others. 
Service, grace, and support are namely a few of the many gifts and 
talents one can offer. Those who build on a foundation of service are 
truly the most valuable and remarkable individuals within our 
communities.
  Kathryn Elliot Williams, my dear childhood friend, was a true servant 
of her community. All of those who knew Elliot were familiar with her 
giving nature. From a very young age, Elliot displayed a magnificent 
sense of eagerness to assist those around her. Described by others as 
``an inspiration to all,'' she set forth on a path to enrich others 
through her talents and gifts. However, a few weeks ago, Elliot lost a 
courageous battle with ovarian cancer.
  She traveled an honorable journey for 36 years. In that time, she 
touched many lives through teaching, encouraging and serving. Her 
students, friends, neighbors and members of her church were those who 
benefited most. Their words describe Elliot the best:
  ``We honor her as a friend, wife, mother and professional and mostly 
a leader of Christianity,''
  ``What a wonderful and brave woman,''

[[Page 8772]]

  ``There are so many amazing and wonderful things she accomplished for 
others,''
  ``Elliot never wavered when presented with obstacles,''
  ``A beautiful, kind person, she was truly an amazing woman,''
  ``Delightful even in the face of adversity,''
  ``She was honest, earnest and a true friend.''
  Elliot, a leader in her community and her home, stood as an example 
for all of those she encountered. Her actions resemble a challenge for 
each one of us to discover our God-given gifts and share them with 
everyone around us.
  Elliot's husband, son and daughter, and her parents will memorialize 
a loving wife, mother, and daughter who shared her talents with the 
world. Elliot's community will remember a gentle and compassionate 
leader dedicated to the goodwill of others.
  I honor Elliot for her ability to provide light, hope, and grace to 
those surrounding her. She was a community servant who rose to the 
challenge, lent support, and encouraged others. I thank her for her 
friendship and I know her life has shepherded future leaders to follow 
her Christ-centered example of service and goodwill.

                          ____________________