[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 8]
[House]
[Pages 10944-10956]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                         CELEBRATING BILL GRAY

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under the Speaker's announced policy of 
January 3, 2013, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fattah) is 
recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the minority leader.
  Mr. FATTAH. Mr. Speaker, let me first thank the House for setting 
aside this time to appropriately reflect on and to celebrate the life 
of service of William H. Gray--Bill Gray, as we know him--who 
represented my hometown of Philadelphia so very well in this Congress. 
But as we're going to have a number of speakers, I'll have ample 
opportunity to talk. So I want to move to a process in which we can 
acknowledge some others who want to say a few words.


                             General Leave

  Mr. FATTAH. I first ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 
legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and 
include extraneous material into the Record on the subject of this 
Special Order.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentleman from Pennsylvania?
  There was no objection.
  Mr. FATTAH. I now yield to the gentlelady from Ohio (Ms. Fudge), who 
chairs the Congressional Black Caucus, for an opportunity to talk about 
Bill Gray and his service to our Nation.
  Ms. FUDGE. I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I thank him for 
leading this Congressional Black Caucus Special Order hour to honor a 
man that was a friend to so many of us, former Congressman William H. 
Gray, III.
  On behalf of the CBC, I send condolences to the Gray family. As you 
celebrate Congressman and Reverend Gray's life, know that we, too, will 
miss a great man. We mourn the loss of Congressman Gray and celebrate 
the legislator, the advocate, and the statesman, a man whose 
accomplishments you will hear a great deal about this evening.
  But if one word defined Bill Gray's life, it is ``service.'' He 
served God, his Philadelphia community, our Nation, 


[[Page 10945]]

and the world with 
dedicated hard work, strong leadership, and a commitment to equity and 
justice. He broke new ground as the first African American to chair the 
House Budget Committee and again as the first African American majority 
whip in the House of Representatives.
  Although I did not have the personal privilege and pleasure to serve 
with him, our history supports the fact that he was a brilliant 
negotiator, bipartisan consensus builder, and courageous policymaker.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentlelady.
  Representing the city of Philadelphia was something that Bill Gray 
was born to do. He was just an extraordinary Member.
  We have one of my colleagues who knew Congressman Gray and worked 
with him from her earliest days in public service, so I yield to my 
colleague, Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz.
  Ms. SCHWARTZ. I thank my colleague for setting up this Special Order.
  Bill Gray was a total guy. He would have been able to handle this; 
that's for sure.
  I do want to start by offering my condolences to the family, to Bill 
Gray's religious family, his community, and actually all Philadelphians 
who knew him and not only respected him, but loved him and admired him 
for the work that he did on behalf of Philadelphia and on behalf of the 
Nation and on behalf of the world.
  I think we've all heard a bit about his extraordinary public service 
both here, of course, in the House and also then when he went on to, of 
course, help lead the United Negro College Fund.
  What I wanted to say was a little more personal. I think my colleague 
knows this. Congressman Fattah knows some of this history. But when I 
first decided to run for elected office, I went first to City 
Councilwoman Marian Tasco, who was part of the northwest coalition of 
elected officials who came out of the community that was Bill Gray and 
the people who he supported and provided inspiration to. She was 
interested in helping me run for the State senate, and she said, Well, 
Allyson, I'm going to help you out, but there's one really important 
person you're going to need to be on your side.
  It's an interesting district. My district in the State senate 
represented northwest Philadelphia mostly and where Bill Gray lived, 
his house there, and much of the northwest coalition and also part of 
northeast Philadelphia and then eventually part of the suburbs, as 
well. So it is a really interesting and integrated community. It is 
about 40 percent African American.
  I went first to see one of his chief aides. I went to see Jerry 
Mondesire. I'm not sure you're supposed to name names here, but it's a 
Special Order and we can do some of that. I went to talk with him about 
who I was and why I wanted to run and what I hoped to accomplish in the 
State senate. He thought it made some sense and gave me the opportunity 
to set up that meeting with Congressman Gray. I came to see him here at 
the Capitol actually to meet him. I think he was in the whip's office 
at the time, a very grand office. He was a grand man of real stature. 
It was a good meeting. It was actually a very good meeting, and he did 
agree to be supportive. We ended up working together and worked hard 
and won a very competitive primary. I was not the only one running in 
that primary who went on to win in the general election.
  Congressman Gray always was supportive and encouraging, particularly 
when I decided to run for Congress. When I got elected to Congress, the 
district was very different. It didn't represent the northwest. It was 
a very different coalition I had to build for that. But he met with me 
and gave me some good advice about what to do here as a Member of 
Congress. He said I should serve on the Budget Committee. I'm not even 
sure I understood at the time that he was the chair of the Budget 
Committee, the first African American chair of the Budget Committee and 
the power he lent to that. I took his advice, and I think it was good 
advice. It gave me a chance to really rise here fairly quickly in 
Congress.
  What I really want to say is that he was a man who brought great 
intellect, great commitment to public service, a real understanding of 
relationships between people and how you forge those relationships and 
you build on those relationships to find common ground and get things 
done. He did that for Philadelphia, and he did that here in Congress. 
He was, as I say, a spiritual leader and really made such a difference 
to the city.
  I did get to hear him preach a couple of times; and when I went to 
Bright Hope to hear him preach, it was Easter morning. That's kind of a 
special time to be at Bright Hope, as in many churches across this 
country. I remember that I brought my son, who is now well-grown, and 
he was only about 11 or 12 at the time. I asked my son afterwards what 
he thought of the service and what he thought of the preacher, and my 
son, good Jewish boy that he is, he said, You know, Mom, it kind of 
makes you want to believe.
  And I have to say that Bill Gray made us all want to believe not only 
spiritually, but believe in this country and the greatness of this 
country and what we could accomplish. For that, I will be always 
indebted and grateful to have known him, to honor his memory, and to 
share in the sadness at his loss and to wish his family not only 
condolences, but great memories of the man Bill Gray was.
  Mr. FATTAH. Let me ask that we place into the Record a number of 
letters from local elected officials back home in Philadelphia: 
Councilwoman Marian Tasco, State Senator Vincent Hughes, State Senator 
Anthony Williams, City Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown and Cindy 
Bass, and State Representative Dwight Evans.

         Marian B. Tasco, City of Philadelphia, City Council.
       To the Members of the 113th Congress: Respectfully, I join 
     with friends, family and my constituents to submit this 
     letter for The Congressional Record memorializing a world-
     class citizen, with a keen sense of purpose, a man of God, a 
     champion at the forefront of ending apartheid in South 
     Africa, and a man who humbly served the least of these. Over 
     the past 40 years, I have called The Honorable William H. 
     Gray III many things: pastor, my candidate, a mentor, my 
     congressman, and of greatest importance to me, my friend.
       Undoubtedly, Bill Gray lived a beautiful life. Having 
     succeeded his father as pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church 
     in Philadelphia in 1972, I came to know Bill Gray very well. 
     He knew best how to engage the people he was charged to lead. 
     And, he knew how to help individuals identify their best 
     qualities and develop and expand upon them. I credit Bill 
     Gray for helping me to recognize my own ability to organize. 
     Compelled to be his campaign manager when he ran for 
     congress, and later his director of constituent services, he 
     was a mentor to me and others locally and nationally who 
     sought public office. He was instrumental in my run for 
     office and election as Philadelphia's first African American 
     City Commissioner, and strongly supported me in my bid to 
     become council person for the Ninth District. I am forever 
     indebted to him and grateful for his vision.
       Admired for his commitment to the city of Philadelphia, 
     Bill Gray was a powerbroker who used his influence to provide 
     federal resources and opportunities to often underserved 
     communities. And though he walked amongst kings, queens and 
     heads of nations, he was never too busy to meet with his 
     constituents, return a phone call or help someone in need.
       The passing of this gentle giant is untimely, yet I hope 
     all that mourn him will find comfort in knowing that Bill 
     Gray leaves behind a legacy of goodness that surely 
     withstands the test of time.
       God bless Bill Gray and God bless America!
                                                  Marian B. Tasco,
     Ninth District Councilwoman.
                                  ____

         Democratic Appropriations Chairman, Senate of 
           Pennsylvania,
                                                     July 8, 2013.
     Hon. Chaka Fattah,
     Congressman,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Congressman Fattah: I was deeply saddened to learn of 
     the sudden passing of Congressman William H. Gray. He was a 
     giant in Philadelphia politics, a spiritual leader for 
     hundreds of thousands, and a powerful force for good in 
     Washington DC. He was also a mentor to many public officials 
     including myself. Congressman Gray's tremendous spirit will 
     be impossible to replace.
       He was a leader in so many areas, but one of the biggest 
     ways that Congressman Gray inspired me personally was his 
     work against apartheid in South Africa. Congressman Gray was 
     the sponsor of one of the first bills 
     
     
[[Page 10946]]
     
     to prohibit loans and 
     economic investment in that troubled country, which laid the 
     groundwork for the eventual toppling of the regime. I started 
     my own political activism around this issue and his work was 
     a shining example of the good that someone can accomplish in 
     elected office.
       Congressman Gray will be missed. Now, it is the 
     responsibility of the next generation to pick up the torch 
     and try to follow in his footsteps. Serving from his 
     pastorship of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia, he 
     had a focus that was not limited to that North Philadelphia 
     neighborhood, but was international in scope. He always 
     concentrated on transformational change, whether it was in 
     his 2nd Congressional District, Washington, DC, South Africa, 
     or the World. We have truly lost a giant.
       Most people will see Congressman Gray through the lens of 
     politics. I certainly was one of the people who benefitted 
     from his crafting of an independent progressive political 
     movement in Philadelphia. Without his work to create a 
     viewpoint that elected office was essentially the next step 
     for the civil rights movement, I along with many others, 
     probably would not have ever thought about running for 
     political office. I sit as Democratic Chairman of the PA 
     Senate Appropriations Committee because he had the courage to 
     seek and to sit as Chairman of the Budget Committee of the US 
     Congress. His willingness to grasp for what was then an 
     unattainable high prize, gave me the confidence to seek and 
     accomplish the same in my place of service. For that, I will 
     always be grateful for his vision and leadership. But he also 
     influenced a generation of young people to become community 
     leaders, public servants, and business leaders, and to not be 
     limited by the traditions of their profession, but to see 
     themselves also as transformative servant leaders, who never 
     forgot their roots, but who always reached for the broader 
     mission.
       Congressman Gray had a unique ability to reach the common 
     humanity that exists in all of us, in order to bring people 
     together from varied, often times from widely diverging 
     backgrounds. That singular talent allowed him to travel and 
     be comfortable in almost any setting. It also allowed him to 
     accomplish some of his greatest achievements. From his South 
     Africa Anti-Apartheid work, to his rise to the position as 
     the first African-American to serve as Whip in the US 
     Congress, to his leadership of the United Negro College Fund, 
     his ability to connect with people from the board room, the 
     barrio, and the backwater, served him and all of us well.
       Congressman Gray never thought, nor acted small. He was 
     local in his pastorship, and his congressional district, 
     always there to preach the word or to attend a community 
     meeting, and to bring home the ``bacon'' to his constituents. 
     But his transformational vision and service was big and 
     impactful on the grandest of stages--the world. Those of us 
     who have followed in his footsteps have been deeply 
     influenced by his trail blazing path. It remains our hope 
     that we can have the same intensely deep, and wide ranging 
     impact that he has had. It remains our job to truly make a 
     difference in the lives of the people we serve, never 
     settling for less either in ourselves or in others. On behalf 
     of myself, my family, the constituents of the 7th Senatorial 
     District, and for the countless faceless people who he never 
     knew, and for those generations yet to come whose lives he 
     have impacted, we thank Bill, our good and faithful servant. 
     His race has been run, and it has been run so very well.
           Sincerely,

                                 State Senator Vincent Hughes,

                              Democratic Chairman of the PA Senate
                                         Appropriations Committee.
                                  ____
                                  
                                                  Democratic Whip,


                                       Senate of Pennsylvania,

                                                     July 8, 2013.
       Andrea Gray and Family: It was with deep sadness that I 
     learned of the passing of the Rev. William H. Gray III, a man 
     whose imprint on our spiritual, social, and political worlds 
     has been unmatched in the modem era. While Bill had 
     transitioned to a more restful and relaxing life in recent 
     years, his influence could still be felt. His death comes as 
     a great loss for generations, not just in Philadelphia, but 
     across the nation.
       Do accept my family's deepest condolences.
       Certainly, Bill had a springboard to the success he 
     achieved, with solid examples and expectations presented by 
     his father, and his father before him. But what he managed to 
     erect during his time with us deserves lasting admiration and 
     appreciation. From his ground-breaking post in the U.S. 
     Congress to helming the storied Bright Hope Baptist Church to 
     steering the venerable United Negro College Fund, he helped 
     to cement opportunity and guided the aspirations for 
     countless people. My father and I, as did our entire 
     organization, held Bill in great esteem because of the 
     selfless public service to which he dedicated much of his 
     life.
       Above all, he was a man who cherished his family, and 
     without a doubt you will miss him the most.
       Do know that if I can be of any service to you during this 
     difficult time, please feel free to call on me.
           Sincerely,
                                              Anthony H. Williams,
                                      State Senator--8th District.
                                  ____
                                  
                                              City of Philadelphia


                                                 City Council,

                                                     July 5, 2013.
       To the Family, Friends and Colleagues of the Honorable 
     William H. Gray, III: I am still in a state of shock. 
     Congressman Bill Gray really made a mark on my political 
     career. It was Congressman Gray who first mentioned, inspired 
     and urged me to go to my first Democratic National Convention 
     in 1984. Because of that ``nudging'' I have been to 7 of the 
     last 8 DNC Conventions.
       I was also astonished by his gift as a Pastor, having been 
     a longtime member of Bright Hope Baptist Church. If you had 
     the privilege of hearing his sermons, you know that his 
     knowledge of the Bible equaled his knowledge of the 
     Constitution.
       I join the legions of adoring admirers who will miss his 
     footprint. He was a leader who distinguished himself as a 
     minister, educator, Congressman and father. In all these 
     roles, he made excellence his standard while never losing the 
     common touch.
       My heart and prayers go out to his family. We thank them 
     for sharing him with the City of Philadelphia and the nation.
       We must all remember that God gives us work to do on earth 
     and then he calls us home.
           In Service,
                                          Blondell Reynolds Brown,
                                            Councilwoman At-Large.
                                  ____
                                  
                                              City of Philadelphia


                                                 City Council,

                                                     July 3, 2013.
       Gray Family and Bright Hope Baptist Church Congregants: It 
     is with deep regret that I express to your family and friends 
     my sincere sympathy on the passing of the beloved former U.S. 
     Rep. William H. ``Bill'' Gray, 3rd.
       Congressman Gray was a progressive leader unlike any other 
     we have seen, or are likely to ever see again. He was a 
     political titan, a man committed to his community, and a man 
     of faith. Bill Gray was a leader in Philadelphia during a 
     difficult time in its history, determined to help our city 
     become better and stronger.
       Many politicians in Philadelphia owe their careers to Bill 
     Gray, as he was known for encouraging people to become active 
     in politics. I join them, Congressman Gray's family, and 
     countless others whose lives he touched in mourning this 
     great man.
           My sincere sympathy,
                                               Cindy Bass, Member,
     Philadelphia City Council, 8th District.
                                  ____

                                         House of Representatives,


                                 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,

                                                     July 3, 2013.
       Dear Gray Family: It is with profound sorrow that I extend 
     my condolences to you on the passing of your loved one, the 
     Honorable William H. Gray. Honorable was not just part of his 
     title, Honorable was the man. A staunch supporter and 
     protector of the underdog, the disenfranchised and the 
     unprotected, Congressman Gray's passing will long be felt by 
     those who benefited from his tenacity.
       Congressman Gray blazed trails and set precedents that 
     those of us who follow in his stead will spend our entire 
     careers attempting to emulate. He was a fighter, a bold 
     strategist who understood the workings of government and used 
     that knowledge for the betterment of those that he 
     represented.
       I can imagine that these next upcoming days and weeks will 
     be difficult for you. However, I can only hope that the great 
     legacy that Congressman Gray leaves behind will bring you 
     comfort. Defending ones belief in the face of adversity, 
     never allowing limitations to limit you, being committed to a 
     principle and a people in spite of popular beliefs, and 
     winning against impossible odds, is what the Honorable 
     Congressman William H. Gray stood for and the mantle that he 
     has left for the rest of us to take up.
       Wishing you peace and blessings.
           Sincerely,
                                                     Dwight Evans,
                                       203rd Legislative District.

  Mr. FATTAH. I now yield to the gentleman from Georgia, Sanford 
Bishop.
  Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I 
thank him so much for having this Special Order so that we can 
celebrate the life of our friend and mentor, Bill Gray.
  Shakespeare wrote:

       All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely 
     players; they have their exits and their entrances, and one 
     man in his time plays many parts.

  So it was with Reverend-Doctor-Congressman Bill Gray. He was a son, a 
husband, a father, a grandfather, a preacher--Union Baptist in 
Montclair, New Jersey, Bright Hope in Philadelphia. He pastored my 
great, great aunt, Aunt Mini, for whom my mother was named. He was a 
businessman. He was a mentor. He was a servant. He was a legislator. 
You've heard budget chairman, majority whip of this House of 


[[Page 10947]]

Representatives. He was a bridge builder, particularly in education, 
understanding that education is an escalator to upward mobility. And he 
made it possible for thousands and thousands of young people to get a 
college education. He was a great corporate citizen.
  He was my friend, a confidant. He gave many items of sage advice and 
counsel. He was an avid supporter in coming to Georgia to support me 
when I was a State legislator. He supported me when I ran for Congress 
and continued to support me for reelection. And, of course, he was a 
wonderful friend, and we developed a wonderful relationship. I will 
miss him greatly.
  His 71 years are but a minute in eternity, but I have to just reflect 
and say that he did so much with his minute. The poet wrote:

     I have only just a minute,
     Only 60 seconds in it.
     Forced upon me, can't refuse it.
     Didn't seek it, didn't choose it.
     But it's up to me to use it,
     I must suffer if I lose it,
     Give account if I abuse it.
     Just a tiny little minute,
     But an eternity lives in it.

  We're so thankful that Bill Gray passed this way and touched all of 
our lives and made such a difference, because he certainly did so much 
for so many for so long with his minute on the stage of this life.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman for that recitation of God's 
prayer.
  Now you'll hear from someone who actually served with Bill Gray, who 
was his colleague in more ways than one, because Bill Gray was also a 
member of the greatest college fraternity. He was an Alpha. I now yield 
to the gentleman from New York, Congressman Rangel.
  Mr. RANGEL. Let me first congratulate and thank my colleague, 
Congressman Fattah, for putting together this moment. I know this is 
going to be one of a series of tributes that we're going to have that 
reminds me how we all feel as we lose a dear friend, that we could have 
done more, we should have done more, we could have kept in touch a lot 
more.
  My chief of staff, Patrick Swygert, was a good friend of Pastor Bill 
Gray, and he got me involved in a couple of campaigns for Congress. One 
was not too successful and very embarrassing, and the other one, of 
course, brought him to the House.
  Bill Gray, even though he was known throughout the world, he had a 
personality that once you started talking with him, his charm, his wit 
would allow you to believe that you had known him all of his life.
  He invited me a couple of times to visit Bright Hope, and I listened 
to one of his sermons. It was the first time that I felt so utterly 
proud of being a Member of Congress, being a Democrat, and knowing Bill 
Gray. Because as he took this spiritual sermon and wrapped it around, 
he reminded me, and should remind so many others in public service, 
that there was hardly anything that was in that Bible, that no matter 
what your religion was, that you shouldn't have some compassion for: 
the children that are just a miracle of life that are born; the older 
people that have served and are now among the most vulnerable; the 
sick, the disabled; those that have emotional problems; being able to 
get a decent education so at least you have some of the tools that are 
necessary to negotiate what is sometimes called an ``unfair world.''

                              {time}  1945

  And among all of the Biblical things that he was talking about, how 
he tied that into the educational projects that you became a leader in, 
Congressman Fattah, which nobody in the country has done more for 
education than you have, and he spins right off with the United Negro 
College Fund organization, to make certain that education was such an 
important factor. When it came to Medicaid and Medicare, when it came 
to programs providing food for those people that were starving, all of 
this in that sermon, it made it sound like he was saying that these are 
the things that we've campaigned for, these are the things that we've 
fought for.
  So I guess instead of just feeling guilty that we had not kept in 
touch on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, the work that he has really 
started, in Philadelphia, in the United States Congress, in South 
Africa and throughout the world, there is so much that has not been 
completed. And because such a great leader has succeeded him and comes 
out of that same family that brought people together in Philadelphia, 
and you try so hard to do it right here in this House of 
Representatives, this work is still not completed, the mission has not 
been accomplished. So those of us who knew and loved him so much, if we 
missed saying good-bye when he was well, we can pick up where he left 
off and make certain that his destination is reached by as many people 
as he brought over the line.
  Thank you so much for having this Special Order.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
  It is true that Bill Gray traveled a great distance in his life--born 
in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to his date of expiration in London--but he 
did so much in that period of time to make this world a better place.
  I want to yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Waters) so 
she can talk about the life and legacy in service, the extraordinary 
public service, of our former colleague, Bill Gray.
  Ms. WATERS. Thank you so very much. I would like to first take a 
moment to thank you, Congressman Chaka Fattah, for putting together 
this moment for us to reflect on the life and legacy of Bill. I want 
you to know that we are so pleased that you're carrying on in his style 
and his tradition. Thank you so very much for this evening.
  I rise today deeply saddened by the sudden passing of my friend and 
former colleague, Congressman Bill Gray. He was loved by everyone, and 
his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him. I feel fortunate 
to have had the distinct honor of working with him over the years as 
both a colleague and a dear friend. I join the people of Philadelphia 
and Americans across the Nation in mourning the loss of an effective 
leader and passionate advocate of the public good. Bill Gray will 
certainly be missed.
  First elected in 1978, Congressman Gray's 12 years in Congress were 
marked by extraordinary achievement. Not only was he was the first 
African American to serve as chairman of the House Budget Committee, he 
was also the first African American to serve as majority whip. In 
addition to his outstanding leadership, Congressman Gray's skill as a 
politician and orator raised awareness about the talent of the 
Congressional Black Caucus.
  During his tenure, Congressman Gray also authored legislation that 
implemented economic sanctions against South Africa during apartheid. 
As our thoughts and prayers are with Nelson Mandela, we must remember 
and appreciate the fact that it was Congressman Gray who spearheaded 
Federal efforts to eradicate apartheid.
  Bill Gray was a close friend both to my husband and me long before I 
entered Congress. At Bill's invitation, I was honored to serve as guest 
speaker at Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia, where Bill 
served as pastor until his retirement in 2007. My husband regularly 
played tennis with Bill in Washington, D.C., and many cities across 
this Nation.
  Bill was a strong and influential advocate for his constituents in 
Philadelphia and Americans around the country. I extend my sincerest 
condolences to his wife, Andrea, and their three sons, William, IV, 
Justin, and Andrew, during this difficult time.
  I would just like to share with you--when I first came to the 
Congress of the United States, Bill embraced me and he took me on my 
first codel. We went to the Middle East. Here's a picture of us in 
Israel. It was the first codel that I went on. I watched Bill, how he 
conducted himself, how he dealt with the dignitaries and the heads of 
states, and I've tried to model him all of these years. So I have a lot 
to be thankful for. We are saddened, but I am so pleased that I had the 
opportunity to learn from him, and I certainly admired him so very 
much.
  Thank you very much for organizing this opportunity for us to share 
our 


[[Page 10948]]

thoughts about him today. Thank you, Chaka.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentlelady.
  I didn't get a chance to travel with Bill Gray as a Member because 
obviously he was here before I arrived, and by the time I got here, he 
was gone. But I do remember flying on Air Force One with President 
Clinton, and we flew into the heart of Africa, and we walked into a 
meeting with President Nelson Mandela. And in talking with the 
President, I explained that I represented Philadelphia. He said, Bill 
Gray's seat. That will resonate for all of time that Bill Gray had such 
an impact that this man was able to walk out of prison after 27 years 
and become President in part because of the leadership on this House 
floor to do away with constructive engagement and say, No, we need as a 
Nation to take the right moral position, along with Congressman Dellums 
and others. Rangel was in it. It was indispensable to helping South 
Africa make that transition.
  So I want to move from California now to another little, small, tiny 
State--I'm sorry, excuse me, Texas. Let me yield to the great 
gentlelady from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).
  Ms. JACKSON LEE. Let me thank my classmate, and we certainly owe him 
a debt of gratitude for the respect that he is allowing us to show on 
the floor of the House in honor of the Honorable William H. Gray, III. 
I, too, want to offer my sympathy to his wife, Andrea, to Bill Gray, 
who we often saw with him, and he would be really at his side. Bill and 
Andrea and Justin and Andrew, I offer to them enormous concern for the 
loss of this great, great champion.
  I, too, want to lift my voice and say that Bill Gray wore many hats. 
On behalf of the faith community in Houston, the faith community in 
Texas, I want the Gray family to know that my pastors recognize and 
respected Bill Gray. In fact, when we would see each other, and I did 
not, as Chaka has said, have an opportunity to serve with him, but when 
we would see each other, he would ask about this pastor or that pastor, 
and it gave me a sense of friendship but also a sense of connectedness 
to Bill by saying, oh, they like you, too, or they said hello as well, 
because Bill was so respected.
  If I might say on this floor, Bill Gray was a child of God. Although 
we are going to say so many things about him, I think it is appropriate 
to say that he loved his church and his ministry. My pastors across 
Texas are praying for his family.
  I want to cite a few things that I think are so much a part of his 
DNA and his legacy, to be able to be a son of a mother and father who 
were premier educators in the life of historically black colleges, to 
be able to see him carry their leadership and move it to the United 
Negro College Fund, which is where I first came to know him, having not 
served with him in his work, but I knew him earlier because he and 
Mickey Leland were dear friends. And you can be assured that Mickey 
never left Washington up here. Whenever he would come home, he would 
share his stories with us, who looked up and thought these stories of 
grandeur, of leadership, of good fights to make things better, and we 
would hear about Bill Gray, his friend.
  I remember Mickey leading the Congressional Black Caucus and bringing 
them to Houston. Bill Gray was there, and they were talking about what 
a challenge it was to leave Washington, but they were glad to come to 
then not really the fourth-largest city in the Nation, but to come down 
South and show what the Congressional Black Caucus represented.
  So I want to say that we are grateful for the courage but also the 
astuteness of his success: 56 years in the United Negro College Fund, 
$1.6 billion, $1.5 billion, one-half of that was raised under Bill 
Gray. He was serious about his work.
  Sometimes we don't understand, and this is, of course, for the 
Congressional Record, because my Members do, but first are to be 
respected. And it should be known that our colleague, Bill Gray, was 
the first African American to rise to the level of leadership which he 
did. We say the words ``majority leader,'' we say the words ``chairman 
of the Budget Committee,'' we say the words ``chair of the Democratic 
Caucus,'' but he was the first. He will forever be in the annals of 
history, and I think it is absolutely key that that is the case.
  I want to cite the bills, as my colleague from California said, I 
want to call them out: H.R. 1460, the Anti-Apartheid Action Act of 
1985; and the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986, H.R. 4868. 
Those were the guys who came together--we've mentioned Ron Dellums and 
the whole expanse of Members at that time who stood resolved that this 
Nation would not diminish its democratic ideals by engaging with South 
Africa. And I think courageously he took a stand that we are so proud 
of.
  He was, of course, respected in Washington and appointed by the 
President as an adviser and received a Medal of Honor from the Haitian 
President Aristide. He took leadership and he took it with a great 
sense of dignity.
  Let me conclude my comments by indicating that Bill Gray always had a 
smile on his face. He never stopped working. There were many times he 
came to my office not as a former majority leader but for an issue that 
he may have had. As I know he went into many Members' offices, 
particularly members of the Congressional Black Caucus. It was always 
uplifting, but Bill Gray always had a story of encouragement. He always 
had a smile and a deep laugh. He was a good man, and I want to leave 
this floor by saying good men, good people die young. But what we will 
always remember is that Bill Gray walked in giant steps, not because of 
his height but because of his service to America, his love of God, his 
love of people, and his love of his family. He will be forever missed, 
and he will be forever remembered. God bless him. God bless his family, 
and God bless his service.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of a great American, 
Congressman William ``Bill'' Gray, who served more than a decade in 
this great body.
  Today, Members of both the House and the Senate and people around 
this great Nation mourn the passing of a legislator, a politician, a 
pastor, a teacher, a public servant and most of all a larger-than-life 
patriot.
  The United States, the State of Pennsylvania and Congress have lost a 
true hero in Congressman Bill Gray. My heart went out to his family, 
and the constituents he represented upon learning of his passing last 
week. Congressman Gray was a true patriot and devoted his time here on 
earth to serving others in his district, state, country, and around the 
world. His presence with us will be deeply missed, but I know that his 
legacy will live on for decades to come.
  Congressman Bill Gray was born on August 20, 1943 in Baton Rouge, 
Louisiana, but he spent most of his childhood in Florida, where his 
father served as the president of Florida Normal and Industrial 
College, which later became Florida A&M University.
  Congressman Gray, like his father, was a strong supporter of 
education and leading advocate for strengthening America's educational 
systems. He earned several degrees: a bachelor's degree in 1963 from 
Franklin and Marshall College, a Master's of Divinity in 1966 from Drew 
Theological Seminary, and another Master's in Church History from 
Princeton Theological Seminary in 1970. Additionally, he was awarded 
more than 65 honorary degrees from America's leading colleges and 
universities.
  Born into a family of ministers and educators, Congressman Gray 
carried on his family traditions until his death. At an early age, he 
accepted his calling to become a preacher, and from that day, he 
proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus in the church, in the community, and 
even in the halls of Congress. His faith was unshakable and undeniable; 
it was evident that he lived his life based upon what he preached.
  Congressman Gray was the pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in 
Philadelphia for more than 25 years, a church pastored by his father 
and grandfather. Under his leadership, the congregation grew to more 
than 5,000 plus members, and the church served tens of thousands 
citizens in the community.
  In addition to his church ministry, Congressman Gray served as a 
faculty member and professor of history and religion at St. Peter's 
College, Jersey City State College, Montclair State College, Eastern 
Baptist Theological Seminary, and Temple University. He spent countless 
hours outside of the classroom preparing students for success.


[[Page 10949]]

  Elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1978, 
Congressman Gray was a persistent voice for equal rights, educational 
access, and opportunity for all persons, in the United States and 
abroad. He pushed tirelessly for more economic aid for Africa and was a 
leading critic of the South African apartheid.
  In 1985, Congressman Gray was elected as the first African American 
Chair of the House Budget Committee where he introduced H.R. 1460, the 
``Anti-Apartheid Action Act of 1985'', which prohibited loans and new 
investment in South Africa and imposed sanctions on imports and exports 
with South Africa. This bill was an instrumental precursor to the 
Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 (H.R. 4868). Congressman Gray 
played a leading role in shaping United States policy toward South 
Africa, and awakening America to the moral imperative of ending 
apartheid and other injustices abroad.
  In 1989, Congressman Gray was elected to serve as the chairman of the 
Democratic Caucus and later that year was elected Majority Whip. He was 
the first African American to hold these positions and his success 
inspired a generation of African American elected officials.
  In 1991, Congressman Gray resigned from Congress to become the 
president and chief executive officer of the United Negro College Fund, 
UNCF, America's oldest and most successful black higher education 
assistance organization. As president, Congressman Gray led the UNCF to 
new fund-raising records while cutting costs and expanding programs and 
services. Approximately one-half of the more than $1.6 billion raised 
in UNCF's history was collected during Congressman Gray's tenure.
  During the Clinton Administration, Congressman Gray served as 
President Clinton's special adviser on Haiti. He assisted President 
Clinton in developing and carrying out policy to restore democracy to 
Haiti. As a result of his commitment to Haiti, Congressman Gray and 
President Clinton received the Medal of Honor from Haitian President 
Jean-Bertrand Aristide.
  Congressman Gray will always be, in a word, a giant--of Philadelphia, 
of Congress, and of our country. He was a leader and a trailblazer for 
the people he represented. His mission was to help people live better 
lives, to do the work of his Christian faith, to advance the moral 
evolution of humankind, to make public policy that provided education, 
and to bring justice and joy to all human beings one decent act at a 
time.
  Congressman Gray's strong, powerful, and influential voice will be 
missed. Philadelphia, the United States and the world have lost a great 
statesman in Congressman William ``Bill'' Gray. My thoughts and prayers 
go out to his family.
  Mr. FATTAH. Thank you.
  All of us have expressed our condolences to the Gray family, his 
lovely wife and three sons, but I want the Members to take note that we 
have with us this evening a number of Bill Gray's former staff members 
who are here and they are in the gallery, and I would just ask that we 
appropriately acknowledge their presence.
  I would like to yield to the gentleman from the great State of New 
York, Congressman Meeks.
  Mr. MEEKS. I want to thank the gentleman for organizing the 
opportunity to say thank you. First, thank you to God for sending us 
Bill Gray. Thank you to God for having an individual who understands 
who he was, where he came from, and how he got here, and never 
forgetting about those least than he. Bill Gray knew what his purpose 
was in life. Many individuals go through this thing that we call life 
and never find out what our purpose is. But all you have to do is to 
look at the works of Bill Gray, and you know his purpose was to serve 
people, to serve people who needed a hand up, to serve people who 
sometimes are forgotten about, to serve people to make sure that their 
tomorrow was better than their yesterday.
  When I think of Bill Gray, one of the first things that I was told 
when I got elected to Congress, by an individual who looked up to him, 
my predecessor, the Reverend Floyd H. Flake, said that Reverend Gray 
inspired him because, like Reverend Gray, Reverend Flake had a large 
congregation.

                              {time}  2000

  And he understood how he could take that skill, being a minister, and 
help the masses.
  In fact, I can recall a statement made by Representative Gray when he 
was appointed, when he was elected the chair of the Budget Committee. 
They asked him, What do you know about budgets?
  He said, Have you ever been the pastor of a Baptist church? And he 
showed that he did understand budgets and money, and how to deal with 
it, and he did it in such a masterful way.
  He also understood the world, and the global world. Even the last few 
conversations I had with him were about the world, were about going out 
to countries, whether they be on the continent of Africa or right here 
in North America, whether it was in the Western Hemisphere, and how he 
could help people, all people, but especially people of African 
descent, so that they too can rise and see and accomplish all that they 
could be.
  So death is always--and I send my condolences to the family--it's a 
sad thing. But when one has had such a stellar life, when one has made 
the kind of contributions, it's a celebration. It's a celebration that 
we need to thank God for, and we need to thank the fact that God sent 
him here so that he could be that bright and shining star for all to 
see and many to follow.
  He leaves a legacy for us to follow. We will follow. We will miss 
him, but we thank him for his service to mankind.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman and also would like to thank all 
who have assisted the family at this time, including the United States 
Department of State, which assisted in dealing with some of the issues 
around the death of Bill Gray in another country. And I want to thank 
them.
  I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).
  We have about 20 minutes left. The gentlelady's going to have 2 
minutes, the speaker that follows her is going to have 2 minutes, and 
then we're going to be going down towards 1\1/2\ minutes from that 
point forward in order to make sure that everyone has a chance to make 
comments. And I will reserve the last 4 minutes for myself.
  Ms. LEE of California. I want to thank the gentleman for yielding 
time and for leading our efforts tonight to celebrate the life of our 
beloved Bill Gray.
  I first want to extend my condolences to his loving wife, Andrea, and 
his three sons.
  My thoughts and prayers are with Bill's family, his extended family, 
friends, the Bright Hope Baptist Church family in Philadelphia and, of 
course, the residents of Philadelphia.
  I know that tonight, Bill's friend and colleague, my predecessor and 
good friend, Ron Dellums, also sends his sympathy and prayers to Bill's 
family and friends.
  When Congressman Gray was elected to Congress in 1978, I was a member 
of then-Congressman Ron Dellums' staff. Congressman Gray hit the ground 
running, became chair of the Democratic Caucus, majority whip, and 
chair of the Budget Committee.
  As the first African American in many of his positions, he was truly 
a trailblazer and paved the way for many of us to follow.
  As a congressional staffer, I worked closely with his staff, and 
thank you so much for recognizing them. I worked with almost every one 
of them who are here tonight, and we worked so closely on so many 
issues, especially education, and his efforts with Congressman Dellums 
to put the United States on the right side of history relating to 
sanctions against then-racist apartheid South Africa.
  Congressman Gray treated staff with respect, and he valued their 
counsel and their hard work. And so I know that all of Congressman's 
Gray's staff, former staff, those who are here, and others, mourn his 
loss and send their sympathies.
  In recalling so many wonderful memories of Bill, one stands out for 
me like no other. In 1980, Congressman Bill Gray led a congressional 
delegation to Sierra Leone in West Africa to participate in what was 
then the Africa-America Institute's conference.
  I was privileged to represent my boss, Ron Dellums, on this mission, 
and Singleton McAllister, his staffer, was on that visit. Now, this was 
my first visit 


[[Page 10950]]

to the land of my ancestors, so it was exciting, and it 
was a moving visit for me.
  On the plane were many dignitaries, including Ambassador Andrew 
Young.
  Now, the leader of congressional delegations had input into the menus 
served on the plane. In Bill's typical way, he decided the delegation 
should have soul food on the journey to Africa. We had fried chicken, 
greens, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and peach cobbler.
  We visited several countries on this trip, and I was amazed and so 
proud of Congressman Gray's command of the issues in each country and 
his diplomacy with African leaders.
  I had the privilege to worship at the Bright Hope Baptist Church in 
Philadelphia and learned what a great, prophetic, and Spirit-filled 
preacher he was. And I also marveled at how every weekend he was in his 
church preaching.
  I had many memorable talks with him about religion and politics. He 
was dedicated to his country, his church, his constituents and, most 
importantly, his God, and he understood very clearly the importance of 
the separation of church and state.
  What an incredible human being he was. I have so many memories that I 
could share, but in the interest of time, I cannot do that tonight.
  But I just want to say that when Bill Gray learned I was running for 
Congress in '98, he became one of my most consistent supporters and my 
dear, dear friend. We had many conversations on the phone, many 
meetings; and I'll always remember his words of encouragement and 
wisdom.
  I will miss the Honorable Congressman Reverend Bill Gray 
tremendously. He touched my life in so many ways, and for that he will 
always have a place in my heart.
  May his legacy live. May he rest in peace.
  Mr. FATTAH. Mr. Speaker, I will place in the Record a number of 
letters from local elected officials: State Senator LeAnna Washington, 
State Senator Stack, and a number of State legislators, including my 
own, Vanessa Brown, and J.P. Miranda.

                                       Senate of Pennsylvania,

                                                     July 3, 2013.
       Dear Members of the United States House of Representatives: 
     It was with sadness an shock that I received the news of the 
     untimely passing of The Honorable William H. Gray, III.
       Former Congressman Gray was a leader to African-American 
     elected officials throughout Pennsylvania, but he was first 
     and foremost a native son of Philadelphia. There is no 
     elected official in the city of Philadelphia that has not 
     been mentored or inspired by Congressman Gray. His legacy--
     that of serving his constituents through not only his 
     Christian faith, but as an elected official--and his 
     dedication to ensuring a brighter future for young African-
     American students through the United Negro College Fund--will 
     not be one repeated in our lifetime.
       My condolences to all those who knew, respected, and loved 
     Philadelphia's Bill Gray. He will truly be missed on many 
     levels.
       Sincerely,
                                             LeAnna M. Washington,
                           4th Senatorial District, Philadelphia &
     Montgomery Counties.
                                  ____



                                       Senate of Pennsylvania,

                                                     July 3, 2013.
       To All Members of Congress: I was deeply saddened by the 
     passing of former Congressman, Rev. William H. Gray. 
     Congressman Gray served his country, his community and his 
     family with grace, honor and integrity. I will never forget 
     his spirit and how he treated everyone with kindness, respect 
     and dignity. He was a pillar in Washington and in the 
     community. He will be sorely missed.
       Reverend Gray represented the Second Congressional District 
     of Pennsylvania and rose to become Majority Whip of the House 
     of Representatives, the first African American to earn that 
     post. My family has a long history in Philadelphia politics 
     and Bill Gray was always there for Philadelphia; standing up 
     for what is right and using his position of power for 
     equality. As the Chairman of the Budget committee, 
     Congressman Gray made sure Philadelphia was properly 
     represented on all issues. He was a pioneer in the 
     legislature, bridging the needs of many different people and 
     constituencies on many different issues. As a minister, Rev. 
     Gray preached about brotherhood and unity. As a father, Bill 
     was a gentle soul whose family always came first.
       The memory of William H. Gray will live on not only in 
     written history, but in all of the lives that he touched. 
     Whether it was a foreign dignitary or a constituent, Bill 
     Gray was a gracious man, a caring man, and a leader. Our 
     lives are richer for having known him.
           Sincerely,
                                               Senator Mike Stack,
     5th Senatorial District.
                                  ____

                                    Pennsylvania Legislative Black


                                                       Caucus,

                                                     July 5, 2013.
     Hon. Chaka Fattah,
     2301 Rayburn HOB,
     Washington, DC.
       Dear Congressman Fattah: As you are aware, our nation lost 
     one of its greatest and most esteemed political figures last 
     week, former Congressman William H. Gray III. The many 
     superlatives and praises upon which is due to this statesman 
     pales in comparison to the overall impact and influence that 
     his life has had upon me personally, as well as upon the 
     Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus' (PLBC) membership 
     collectively.
       One of the many lessons gleaned from former Congressman 
     Gray was that greatness is not born, but is instead nurtured, 
     fostered and developed. It is with this particular principle 
     that Congressman Gray inspired countless of our nation's 
     leaders, politicos and captains of industry to aspire for 
     greatness and success. However, most importantly, Congressman 
     Gray was keen on emphasizing that prosperity is devoid of 
     true meaning unless one is inclined to share that path to 
     success with others.
       Congressman Gray's life, through his words and actions, 
     serves as a veritable testament to the unlimited possibility 
     of what can be achieved through faith, hard work and 
     determination, irrespective of race or ethnicity. Therefore, 
     the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus would like to take 
     this opportunity to formally recognize and honor his life and 
     innumerable contributions to the African-American community, 
     as well as to our society-at-large.
           Sincerely,
     Vanessa Lowery Brown,
       Chairwoman, Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, State 
     Representative, 190th Legislative District.
                                  ____

                                         House of Representatives,


                                 Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,

                                         Harrisburg, July 4, 2013.
       Dear Speaker of the House: Thank you for allowing me the 
     opportunity to express my humble gratitude. I cannot tell you 
     enough on how much I appreciated having a great role model 
     during my life time such as the late former Congressman 
     William H. Gray III.
       In every generation there is always some great person who 
     has contributed so much to society but what distinguished 
     Congressman Gray out from all the rest was not only did he 
     impact our generation but he also done it during some very 
     crucial and critical moments in history.
       Congressman William H. Gray III has done many great things 
     as a leader for me and other individuals and for the 
     community as a whole. Growing up in northern Philadelphia it 
     was extremely an honor to have been able to have someone that 
     you could admire and respect as a leader and father figure.
       Congressman Gray stood above all the rest for me because he 
     has help to open the doors to many opportunities; one in 
     particular was the supporting efforts that ended Apartheid in 
     South Africa in addition to his huge contribution and support 
     of education, especially towards the Negro College Fund which 
     has given many young men and women a chance to soar into 
     vibrant and productive leaders into society.
       Again, I thank you for allowing me the opportunity to 
     express my condolences on behalf of the late former 
     Congressman William H. Gray III and let it be known that on 
     this day the 4th of July 2013, that he will never be 
     forgotten.
           Sincerely,
                                                    J. P. Miranda,
     State Legislator--197th District.
                                  ____


                      Legislative Reference Bureau


                              condolences

       In the Senate,
       Whereas, The Senate of Pennsylvania mourns the loss of the 
     Honorable William Herbert Gray III, a former member of the 
     United States House of Representatives, who passed away on 
     July 1, 2013, at the age of seventy-one; and
       Whereas, Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on August 20, 
     1941, Mr. Gray was a graduate of Franklin and Marshall 
     College, Drew Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological 
     Seminary. He became the senior minister at the Bright Hope 
     Baptist Church in Philadelphia in 1972 and represented the 
     2nd Congressional District in the United States House of 
     Representatives from 1978 until 1991. Lauded as the first 
     African-American to serve as Majority Whip, Mr. Gray was also 
     the first to chair the House Budget Committee, during which 
     time he introduced an influential anti-apartheid bill. 
     President and Chief Executive Officer of the United Negro 
     College Fund from 1991 until 2004, he served as a special 
     advisor to the President and Secretary of State for Haitian 
     Affairs in 1994 
     
[[Page 10951]]     
     
     and was named to the PoliticsPA list of 
     Pennsylvania's Top Political Activists. A cofounder of Gray 
     Loeffler LLC, Mr. Gray served as a Director of Dell, J.P. 
     Morgan Chase and Company, Rockwell International Corporation, 
     Pfizer, Visteon Corporation and Prudential Financial, Inc. He 
     retired from the Bright Hope Baptist Church in 2007; and
       Whereas, Mr. Gray represented many things to many people, 
     among them a beloved family member, dedicated worker and 
     avowed community steward who generously gave of his heart and 
     time to enhance the quality of life of his family and 
     community; now therefore be it
       Resolved, That the Senate of the Commonwealth of 
     Pennsylvania note with great sadness the passing of the 
     Honorable William Herbert Gray III, whose life greatly 
     benefited all those who lived, served and worked with him; 
     and extend heartfelt condolences to his wife, Andrea Dash 
     Gray; three sons, William IV, Justin and Andrew; and many 
     other family members and friends; and be it further
       Resolved, That a copy of this document, sponsored by 
     Senators Shirley M. Kitchen, Lawrence M. Farnese, Jr., 
     Vincent J. Hughes, Michael J. Stack, Christine M. 
     Tartaglione, LeAnna M. Washington and Anthony Hardy Williams, 
     be transmitted to Andrea Dash Gray.
                                  ____

                                     Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,


                            Department of the Auditor General,

                                     Harrisburg, PA, July 3, 2013.
       It is fitting that we honor the life and accomplishments of 
     the late Congressman William H. Gray, III. As the first 
     African American to chair the House Budget Committee and 
     serve as Majority Whip in Congress, Congressman Gray was an 
     inspiration to other politicians across the Commonwealth of 
     Pennsylvania, as well as the nation. In these roles, he used 
     his skills as a negotiator and coalition builder to work with 
     members on many issues of importance, including spending cuts 
     that did not affect the most vulnerable in our nation. 
     Throughout his life, he was a staunch supporter of 
     strengthening our educational system; supporting black 
     colleges and universities and, during his time as President 
     of the United Negro College Fund, working diligently to help 
     minority students receive a college education.
       His strong faith permeated his entire life and career. 
     Serving as a spiritual advisor to many, his combined role as 
     pastor and public servant allowed him to preach to both his 
     congregation and his constituents. He directed his life 
     towards service to God and country and he demonstrated it in 
     everything he did. Congressman Gray will be remembered for 
     his everlasting commitment to public service and empowering 
     people to reach new heights.
       I am deeply saddened by the loss of this great man and 
     extend my condolences to his family and friends.
                                             Eugene A. DePasquale,
     Auditor General.
                                  ____


                    Tribute to William H. Gray, III

                         (By Ralph Nurnberger)

       Former House Majority Whip William H. Gray, III, who passed 
     away on July 1 while visiting London, was my colleague in the 
     firm Gray Global, my tennis buddy for almost thirty years and 
     most important, my friend.
       Three weeks before his fateful trip, Bill Gray's 97 year 
     old mother was able to meet President Barack Obama for the 
     first time. She told him that she never thought she would 
     live to see the day when an African American could be elected 
     President.
       President Obama responded by telling her how much he 
     respected and admired her son. In this, he is not alone.
       The key to understanding the life of this extraordinary man 
     was his sense of mission, essentially a commitment to helping 
     others and making the world a better and more peaceful place.
       After graduating from Franklin and Marshall University and 
     earning Master of Divinity degrees at Drew University 
     Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary, Bill 
     became a minister at Union Baptist Church in Montclaire, New 
     Jersey. While pastoring at Union, Bill was also a professor 
     of religion and history at St. Peter's College. He later 
     taught at Jersey City State College, Montclair State, Eastern 
     Baptist Theological Seminary, and Temple University.
       Bill spent thirty-five years as the Pastor of Bright Hope 
     Baptist Church in Philadelphia. He succeeded his father, who 
     had, in turn succeeded his father as the Pastor.
       Shortly after assuming this pulpit, Martin Luther King, Jr. 
     advised Bill never to stop his work at the Church, regardless 
     of whatever else he might do in life. When the Church grew 
     and opened its new facility, Bill and his father and King and 
     his father all preached on the same Sunday. This was the only 
     time that King and his father both preached at the same place 
     on the same day outside of Atlanta.
       Bill never forgot King's admonition and continued his 
     leadership at the Church, going to Philadelphia to preach 
     almost every Sunday.
       Bill was first elected to Congress in 1978 and served as 
     the Representative from the Second Congressional District of 
     Pennsylvania for thirteen years.
       He was the first African American to head his Party's 
     Caucus in the House of Representatives; the first to Chair a 
     financial committee (Budget) in the House; and the highest 
     ranking African American in U.S. legislative history (to 
     date) when he became the Majority Whip. He still has the 
     distinction of being the highest ranking Member of the 
     Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation to serve in the House. 
     In 1988, his Party selected him to chair the Presidential 
     Platform writing committee.
       Bill Gray's political accomplishments have been well 
     documented, but it is significant that he saw personal 
     achievements mainly as a means to enable him to help others. 
     In a 1991 interview with the New York Times, Gray stated that 
     ``My concept of power is different from other people's. I 
     come from a background of ministry and education in which 
     power is the ability to impact on people's lives.''
       Although he was fiercely partisan, Gray was able to work 
     with enough Republicans to secure passage of a budget 
     prepared by his committee; one which contained funding for 
     numerous social and educational programs.
       Gray's finest moment in Congress came when he joined with 
     former Representatives Steve Solarz (D-NY) and Howard Wolpe 
     (D-MI) to draft a bill imposing sanctions on the apartheid 
     regime in South Africa. Gray was able to use an even tougher 
     sanctions bill introduced by Representative Ron Dellums (D-
     CA) as leverage in negotiations with Senate conferees, which 
     resulted in both chambers accepting the Gray-Solarz-Wolpe 
     bill.
       President Ronald Reagan vetoed this bill and gave a 
     nationally televised address to explain his actions. Speaker 
     Tip O'Neill (D-MA) then asked Gray to deliver the nationally 
     televised response to the President's veto message. Congress 
     subsequently overrode the veto, marking the first time that 
     any of Reagan's foreign policy vetoes had not been sustained.
       The impact of this legislation was immediately felt in 
     South Africa, where the pro-apartheid government soon 
     collapsed and Nelson Mandela was freed from prison. When 
     Mandela later spoke to a joint session of Congress, Bill Gray 
     accompanied him to the podium. Mandela subsequently spoke to 
     Gray's congregation at Bright Hope Baptist Church. 
     Appropriately, Gray was part of the official United States 
     Delegation to attend Mandela's inauguration as President of 
     South Africa in 1994.
       He was aware that many Jews played significant roles in the 
     Civil Rights movement and thus did all he could to improve 
     Black-Jewish relations. Together with George Ross, in 1985 
     Gray founded ``Operation Understanding'' an organization 
     designed to bring young Jewish and African Americans together 
     to promote respect, understanding and cooperation while 
     working to eradicate racism, anti-Semitism and all forms of 
     discrimination.
       At the height of his political career, in the late 1980's 
     and early 90's, there was speculation that Gray would 
     eventually become Speaker of the House. Others encouraged him 
     to run for Governor or Senator from Pennsylvania. There was 
     even talk that he might become the first serious African 
     American Presidential candidate.
       Gray surprised everyone when he announced that he would 
     leave Congress--and politics--in 1991, in mid-term, to become 
     the President and CEO of the United Negro College Fund.
       He explained that: ``I can do more to help more people than 
     I can even if I became Speaker.'' Between 1991 and 2004, Gray 
     raised over $2.6 billion in new funds for UNCF. Thus, there 
     are thousands of young people who would never have had the 
     opportunity to go to college if it were not for his efforts 
     and the quality of education offered at historically Black 
     Colleges and Universities has dramatically improved.
       President Bill Clinton appointed Gray in 1994 to be Special 
     Advisor to the President on Haiti. Gray was able to help 
     promote stability, reduce the number of potential casualties 
     and restore the democratically elected government.
       Gray served on a number of major corporate boards, 
     including Dell, Pfizer, Prudential Financial and Prudential 
     Insurance Company of America, and JPMorgan Chase & Co. John 
     Strangfeld, Prudential's Chairman and CEO stated: ``Bill was 
     a highly respected member of our board and a leader in all 
     aspects of his life--a preacher, a legislator, a businessman 
     and a board director.''
       After retiring from UNCF, together with his son Justin, 
     Bill Gray founded a government relations and business 
     advocacy firm, now called Gray Global.
       Gray spent the past years seeking to bring about a 
     resolution of the conflict concerning the status of the 
     Western Sahara region of Morocco. He supported a solution 
     initially proposed by the Clinton administration that the 
     Western Sahara should remain under Moroccan sovereignty but 
     that the residents be granted autonomy over their own 
     affairs. Gray was particularly concerned about the fate of 
     tens of thousands of refugees who are still ``warehoused'' in 
     camps on the Algerian side of the border by the Polisario 
     Front. Gray worked to secure freedom for these refugees, 
     currently living under horrible conditions in the Sahara 
     Desert.
     
     
[[Page 10952]]


       It is significant that Bill Gray's most recent foreign 
     policy effort underscores his life-long commitment to assist 
     those in need, especially people who are denied basic human 
     rights and dignity.
       Bill Gray was a decent and caring man, who spent his life 
     surrounded by a loving family and a wide range of friends and 
     admirers.

  Mr. FATTAH. I yield to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. 
Butterfield).
  Mr. BUTTERFIELD. I thank you, Congressman Fattah, for convening this 
Special Order this evening, and I thank you for doing so much for so 
many.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to my friend and great American, 
William Herbert Gray, III.
  I spoke by email today, Mr. Speaker, with a family friend in 
Cincinnati, her name is Barbara Bond, whose deceased late husband, 
LaVelle, was Bill's friend. She informed me that Bill's closest of 
friends called him Herb, and that Herb always insisted on paying for 
the meal and telling his friends where to sit at the dinner table.
  Mr. Speaker, I first met Bill Gray many years ago. He was a dear 
friend of a mutual friend, Attorney Ralph Stephens, of Raleigh, North 
Carolina, who was also a minister and a lawyer. Bill and Ralph's 
relationship was very deep. When Ralph passed away some years ago, Bill 
came to Raleigh, consoled the family, and delivered the eulogy.
  In fact, when Ralph's older brother, Dr. Claude Stephens, of 
Fayetteville, passed away, Bill chartered a flight from Washington to 
Fayetteville and then flew back to Washington. He was that type of 
human being, compassionate and caring for his friends.
  On Monday of last week, June 24, Bill Gray telephoned me to say that 
he wanted me to meet the former Ambassador to Morocco. I agreed, and we 
met at noon the following day in the Members' dining room here in the 
Capitol for a delightful 1-hour meeting.
  During the meeting, Bill reminisced about his days here in the House 
of Representatives and talked about his work as majority whip. He 
reminded me, Mr. Fattah, that he'd never lost a vote during his tenure. 
But he went on to talk about how Democrats and Republicans worked 
together on the big issues of that day and solved problems. And he 
mused about how that approach to governance would be so valuable today.
  Bill also reminded me that when I was first elected in 2004, he and 
Andrea invited me to their Virginia home to meet CEO Michael Dell of 
Dell, Incorporated.
  Well, Mr. Speaker, as we departed from the lunch last week, Bill gave 
me a big hug and said something that men generally don't say to other 
men. He said to me, Butter, I love you, man, and we walked away.
  Well, Bill Gray, we love you and will celebrate your life and your 
work.
  To Andrea and the entire Gray family, I extend to you my warmest 
condolences as you reflect on the life and work of your loved one. May 
God bless each of you.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
  Bill Gray, for myself and my wife, for my parents, for tens of 
thousands of Philadelphians, was just a wonderful human being who did 
so much to help so many.
  And I think it is appropriate that the Democratic leader has come to 
the floor to address us on the occasion of recognizing the service of 
someone whom she served with, and they were great friends. And so I 
yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Pelosi), the Democratic 
leader.
  Ms. PELOSI. I thank the gentleman from Philadelphia for yielding and 
for giving us this opportunity to sing the praises of a great man, 
Chairman Bill Gray, Democratic Whip Bill Gray.
  Mr. Speaker, I had the privilege just a few weeks ago of receiving a 
call from Bill Gray. And I said, oh, it was just out of the blue, 
wanting to know how my family was doing, challenging my husband to 
tennis, as always, telling him is he ready to get beaten by me, and 
this or that.
  He said, I just want to know how things are. And he asked me how 
things were going here, just a call of friendship. And it was just so 
remarkable to me that about 2 weeks later we had the word.
  He told me he was going to Wimbledon, he was taking his sons to 
Wimbledon. He was going to go. He loved tennis.
  And then when we got the word, it was just so strange, and I felt 
that God had really truly blessed me because I had that opportunity to 
speak with him, just out of the blue and within a matter of weeks 
before his passing.
  I did have the privilege of serving with him. As I look around and 
see all these much younger Members, maybe they didn't all serve with 
him, but they knew of his great leadership for our country.
  Anybody who did serve with him, or knew of the leadership of Bill 
Gray, knew that he was, in a word, a giant, a giant of Philadelphia, a 
giant of the Congress, a giant of our country. He was a leader and a 
trailblazer, a proud Representative of the people of Philadelphia. He 
just loved his district, a man who left his mark on the history of his 
city.
  His time in Congress was an extension of his family business, public 
service, serving the community, acting on the values of his faith, 
giving back to his neighbors and the less fortunate.
  Others have spoken about how he made this choice. This is a man who 
could have done anything in life. He had the talent. He had the 
stamina. He had the energy, the values and the rest. He was a success 
in anything he strove to do, but he chose the path that his family had 
laid out for him, ministering to the needs of people.
  In the House of Representatives, Congressman Gray will forever stand 
as a first. He was the first African American to serve as chair of the 
Budget Committee, a very big deal, the first African American to serve 
as the majority whip in the House.
  He sounded the alarm, not only about the injustices of apartheid in 
South Africa, but about what America and Congress could do to end it.
  He broadened the reach of his public service beyond Congress, helping 
send more young people to college, as president and CEO of the United 
Negro College Fund, and how excited he was about that.
  He did everything with gusto, whether it was serving as a Member, as 
a chairman, as the whip, and then to have his values be the focus of 
his work at the United Negro College Fund.
  To serve alongside Bill Gray, I'm sure all of my colleagues will 
attest, was to be inspired by his passion and his commitment, by his 
focus on the future, and by his belief in the common good. It was an 
honor and privilege to know him as a colleague, a special privilege for 
any of us who had that privilege to call him friend.
  We only hope it is a comfort to his wife, Andrea, whom he adored. I 
hope it is a comfort to Andrea and to William IV, to Justin, and to 
Andrew, that so many people mourn their loss, are praying for them at 
this sad time.
  Well, he went doing what he enjoyed, at Wimbledon. Watching Wimbledon 
all weekend, all I could think of was Bill Gray being there.
  So many people loved him. So many people share the grief of the Gray 
family. All I can say is that, knowing him over all of these years, he 
lived life to the fullest.

                              {time}  2015

  Though he left us too soon, what he packed into his years of life and 
service and leadership was something so remarkable. So that's why I 
thank the gentleman for recognizing Bill Gray and giving us the 
opportunity to do so on the floor with the admiration and affection 
that you have brought to this meeting this evening through all of the 
voices of our colleagues.
  I'm sure we'll be saying more and more about Bill Gray. He wasn't 
into titles. He liked having the titles, but he liked the friendship of 
being called Bill Gray.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentlelady, and I thank her for her 
leadership in this House and her own extraordinary career that 
continues as we go forward.
  I yield to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Watt).
  Mr. WATT. Thank you, Mr. Fattah, for convening us here and for 
coordinating this.


[[Page 10953]]

  I'd like to rise and pay tribute to the memory of Bill Gray also. 
Unlike our leader, I never had the pleasure of serving with Bill Gray. 
Maybe people will wonder why so many people have flocked to the floor 
to pay tribute to him. We put him in the same category that we put 
Shirley Chisholm, with whom I never served, or George H. White, with 
whom I never served, or many other people who came before us; because 
we stand on their shoulders and recognize that, but for the 
contributions that they made, we would not be here.
  And I come because Bill Gray was a friend, even though I never served 
with him. He regularly checked in with those of us who served just to 
call and say hello and encourage us to stay committed to the task that 
we are sent here to undertake. He regularly checked in with me because 
he knew I also played tennis and loved tennis and that I'd been to 
Wimbledon before. So I guess the great thing about it is that he died 
in the middle of making a trip to do something and observe something 
that he really loved--and with a member of his family.
  I want to thank Representative Fattah for convening this Special 
Order, and I extend my condolences to Bill Gray's family. We'll 
remember him forever and ever. Amen.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
  The Sunday after Bill Gray left Congress, he preached a sermon, where 
he said that he was chasing his mission. And his mission wasn't money. 
It wasn't being in Congress. It was serving people. And he was leaving 
the Congress to go lead this fine scholarship organization, the UNCF. 
He did an extraordinary thing in terms of convincing people of the 
likes of Bill Gates to write a billion-dollar check at one sitting. No 
one had ever gotten a check that large on behalf of young people in our 
country who seek an education. Bill Gray had the gift of being a 
Baptist preacher who was always optimistic.
  I yield to the gentleman from Minnesota, Keith Ellison.
  Mr. ELLISON. I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania.
  Mr. Speaker, young people often say, I'm interested in politics; I'm 
interested in public service. Who might I look at to model myself 
after?
  I can think of very few people who would be better than someone like 
Mr. William Gray, Congressman Gray, Reverend Gray. He held so many 
titles.
  I did have the pleasure of meeting him. Of course, I never served 
with him, but I did get to know him, and I got to know him in a strange 
way. He just called me up at my office. I said, Bill Gray is calling 
me? I was a brand new Member. I was just happy to be here. But Bill 
Gray thought, Hey, you're a Member of Congress. I'm welcoming you to 
this institution, and I want to have a relationship with you.
  I sat down with him, got to know him, and he actually spent his time 
and gave me the honor of his presence on many occasions. I thought to 
myself, Bill Gray is an excellent role model because:
  One, he has a spirit of optimism. He was always, whenever I was 
around him, happy, smiling, upbeat, and believing it can be done;
  Two, he was never too important--though he was very important--to 
give his time to people. No matter who those folks might be, even a 
freshman Congressman like I was when he called me;
  Three, he's a person who had a certain sense of self-possession. He 
was sure that a college education for kids was right. And because he 
was sure that he was right about it, his enthusiasm for the subject 
kind of infected people around him. It doesn't surprise me that Bill 
Gates would write the check, because he's talking to Bill Gray.
  And so if you really want to be successful, look and study Bill Gray. 
None of us are going to be here forever. May we all leave the legacy of 
a great man like Bill Gray.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
  It was said by Ben Hooks on one occasion that we're all passing one 
by one and we should not get caught with our work undone. So Bill got 
his work done.
  I yield to the gentlelady from the great State of New York, Yvette 
Clarke, who was born on the best day on the calendar. We share 
birthdays. But she is much more beautiful and brilliant than I.
  Ms. CLARKE. To my colleague, Congressman Chaka Fattah, it was a great 
day, November 21.
  But let me just say this: I want to thank you for your leadership. It 
is very appropriate that we're here on the House floor, a place where 
Mr. Gray's power was most profoundly felt, and that you, being his 
successor in office, would lead us through what, for many of us, is a 
day of celebration and commemoration of his life.
  On behalf of the people of the Ninth Congressional District, I'm here 
to express our most profound condolences to the family of Congressman 
Bill Gray and, as I've said, to celebrate his life and the legacy that 
he's left for all of us.
  Trailblazer, man of God, outstanding husband, father, preacher, 
skilled negotiator, consensus builder, majority whip, and servant 
leader, these are just a few of the words that describe the Honorable 
William H. Gray.
  As a pioneering Member of Congress, William H. Gray III was an 
industrious public servant who worked diligently to provide equal 
rights, education, and service to the people of his district and, 
indeed, our Nation. He was a trailblazer for so many who have followed 
in his footsteps in the House of Representatives, including myself, and 
paved the way for many more to follow.
  Congressman Gray represented the Second District of Pennsylvania from 
1979 to 1991. He was the first African American to become majority whip 
of the House of Representatives in 1989, the third-ranking House 
leadership position. He also served as the first African American to 
serve as the chair of the Budget Committee of the House of 
Representatives and was a member of the House Appropriations 
Subcommittee on Transportation and Foreign Operations.
  Congressman Gray, along with many of the CBC at that time, led the 
effort back in the mid-1980s to end U.S. support of apartheid. When he 
retired from the House of Representatives, he went on to become 
president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, where he led the 
efforts to raise more than $2.3 billion for HBCUs, which was 
extraordinary.
  I'm sure my colleagues have recounted over and over and over all that 
he has done. I'm just putting an exclamation point because I think it's 
worth repeating that the people of this Nation need to know what an 
outstanding servant, Congressman, and preacher Congressman Bill Gray 
III was. We miss him dearly.
  He was passionate about education and believed it was the greatest 
tool towards a brighter future. I believe my colleague, Congressman 
Fattah, and he must have melded DNA--or maybe it's a Philly thing. I 
don't know. But certainly I know that this is the legacy that he has 
left for Congressman Fattah, for all of us to follow.
  Congressman Gray hails from a long lineage of preachers. Before 
coming to Congress, Congressman Gray served as the pastor of Bright 
Hope Baptist Church in north Philadelphia, where he served as pastor 
for 35 years. He was a real renaissance man who had been able to manage 
several careers throughout his lifetime. He succeeded his father, 
William H. Gray, Jr., who preached there for 22 years, and his 
grandfather, William H. Gray, Sr., who served there for 24 years. While 
in Congress, he returned to Philadelphia on weekends just to preach. He 
leaves an amazing legacy that will never be forgotten and that will be 
a part of our Nation's history for generations to come.
  During this time of grief, I hope that his family and all of us will 
find solace in our memories and comfort will be bestowed upon the 
family and loved ones at this time of their bereavement. I will 
continue to keep the family and his parishioners and those who hold him 
dear in my prayers and hope that the Lord will continue to be with them 
at this time.
  Mr. FATTAH. Let me thank the gentlelady.
  
  
[[Page 10954]]


  I yield to my fraternity brother and colleague from the great 
Commonwealth of Virginia.
  November 21 is a great day.


                Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair would remind the Members that the 
rules do not allow references to occupants of the gallery.
  Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I thank my Alpha brother for 
yielding.
  It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of our Alpha 
Phi Alpha brother, the Honorable William Herbert Gray III, on July 1, 
2013. My thoughts and prayers are with Reverend Gray's family during 
this difficult time.
  Reverend Gray was a public servant in the truest sense of the word. 
He found many ways to effect change in the lives of the citizens of 
Philadelphia and, later, citizens across the country and the world. 
After his father stepped down as senior pastor of Bright Hope Baptist 
Church, he succeeded him and served as senior pastor for more than 35 
years.
  Well-known as a consensus-builder in the Philadelphia community, 
Reverend Gray leveraged those relationships into an opportunity to 
represent the Second Congressional District of Pennsylvania and the 
U.S. House of Representatives. During his tenure, he rose to the 
influential positions of chairman of the Budget Committee and majority 
whip of the House of Representatives. He was the first African American 
ever to assume the position of majority whip. He wielded these 
positions of power to advance an agenda of social justice for all 
Americans and social justice for those who suffered under the apartheid 
in South Africa.
  After his departure from Congress, he found opportunities to further 
advocate for social equality through his service as president and CEO 
of the United Negro College Fund. During his tenure, he helped raise 
over $2.3 billion so students could continue their dream of affording 
and achieving a college education.
  He will be missed by his former colleagues in the House of 
Representatives and the many people who were positively affected by his 
life's work. He will also be missed by his congregation at Bright Hope 
Baptist Church. His dedication to his congregation was always apparent, 
as evidenced by his continued preaching throughout his tenure in 
Congress and his tenure with the United Negro College Fund.
  Reverend Gray was a shining example of what it means to be a public 
servant, and his strong, influential voice will be sorely missed.
  Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.

                              {time}  2030

  There are many who are honored to serve in this House. There are few 
who honor the House through their service. Bill Gray honored the House 
through his service.
  But I knew Bill Gray as a preacher from north Philadelphia. He 
constructed the Philadelphia Mortgage Plan, the Philadelphia Insurance 
Plan, the guard against red-lining neighborhoods and green-lining 
neighborhoods in north Philadelphia and northwest Philadelphia. I saw 
him deal with the challenges of bringing resources for transportation 
and infrastructure and job training into Philadelphia as a member of 
the Appropriations Committee--which no one actually normally talks 
about. They talk about his chairmanship of the Budget Committee, but as 
an appropriator, he did a great deal to move our country forward.
  So as I move to close, I want to thank his family for sharing Bill 
Gray with the rest of the world. Not just here in the Congress, but all 
around the world Bill Gray worked to make a difference.
  And I want to thank his church family. Because on this Saturday, when 
he's funeralized, there will be people flying in from all over. But the 
people who he married and baptized, the people who he consoled on their 
sick beds, to them, he was their pastor.
  For those who served with him in the House, they learned a great deal 
from Bill Gray's service here, which is that it's not the length or the 
number of terms, it's what we do when we have the power to make a 
difference. He was truly an impact player.
  As a tennis player, he had a great, aggressive net game. He played 
aggressively, and he always played to win. I thank the House and I 
thank my colleagues for taking out this time to recognize his service, 
his life, his legacy, and his leadership.
  I yield back the balance of my time.
  Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank my colleague, 
Mr. Fattah, for leading the CBC's celebration of Congressman William H. 
Gray, III's life and legacy. Our nation has lost a strong community 
leader and devoted public servant.
  Elected to the House of Representatives in 1978, Congressman Bill 
Gray proudly served the citizens of Pennsylvania's Second Congressional 
District for over ten remarkable years. As a Member of Congress, he was 
a tireless advocate for the people of Philadelphia and a pioneer for a 
new generation of African-American elected officials.
  He was a trailblazer who fought to protect the most vulnerable 
individuals in his community, in our country, and around the world.
  During his tenure in Congress, Congressman Gray later became Chairman 
of the Democratic Caucus and Majority Whip for the party. With these 
Leadership positions, he became the highest-ranking African American 
ever to serve in Congress. His congressional record and service 
continues to inspire us all. During the four years he served as Chair 
of the House Budget Committee, Congressman Gray was the chief point man 
in budget negotiations between the Democratic Congress and the Reagan 
Administration. He was no stranger to reaching across the aisle to 
build consensus and work in a bipartisan manner.
  He wielded his Budget Committee gavel for the good of the 
international community pressing for more economic aid for Africa and 
leading the critique of South African apartheid.
  As a staunch supporter of education, he was a key advocate for 
strengthening and improving our nation's schools.
  Upon his retirement from Congress, Representative Gray became 
president and chief executive officer of the United Negro College Fund 
from 1991 to 2004, where he led the Fund to new fund-raising records 
while cutting costs and expanding programs and services.
  Congressman Gray was truly transformative for our communities and 
especially for our young people.
  In 1994, President Clinton appointed Congressman Gray as a special 
advisor to Haiti and in that role he assisted President Clinton in 
developing and carrying out policy to restore democracy to Haiti. Due 
to his service, in 1995, the Congressman received the Medal of Honor 
from the Haitian government.
  Congressman Gray's lifelong commitment to his community, to public 
service, and to his family was truly admirable and inspirational. To 
his wife, Andrea, his three sons and his many grandchildren, know that 
you are in our hearts and our prayers. And, I say to you, celebrate 
Bill's life, because he lived a life that was full of honor and 
integrity. Not only did he inspire each one of us with his service, he 
inspired the Nation.
  I am truly privileged to be able to stand here and honor Congressman 
Gray.
  Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, Bill Gray lived the very definition of a 
fulfilled life--full of family, friends, history making as a public man 
and above all, as a public servant. The first African American House 
Majority Whip, third in rank in the House, first African American chair 
of the House Budget Committee, Member of the House from Pennsylvania, 
author of the 1985 and 1986 South Africa sanction bills, a storied 
leader who broke fundraising records as the Chief Executive Officer of 
the United Negro College Fund, and pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church 
for 25 years. At his premature death, Bill was co-chairman of his own 
consulting firm, GrayLoeffler and Corp.
  However, the highlights of Bill's life of public service did not 
fully define the man. Bill Gray left the Congress before I was elected 
and many were convinced that he would become the first African American 
Speaker of the House, had he chosen to remain in Congress. However, you 
did not have to be a member of Congress to get to know Bill Gray, so 
wide- ranging were his contributions, activities and his friendships.
  Bill was gifted with an agile mind, a magnetic personality, and a 
generous spirit. The shock, regret, and profound sadness Bill's loss 
leaves are mitigated only by the certain knowledge of a life fully, 
richly, and generously lived.
  Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, today we honor someone who truly embodied 
what it means to be a ``public servant,'' former Congressman Bill Gray. 
Whether it was during his time as a professor, as a Member of Congress, 
or as 

[[Page 10955]]

President of the United Negro College Fund, Congressman Gray 
spent his entire life selflessly serving others.
  He exemplified the characteristics of a true leader and was a model 
for all of us here in this chamber. More than anything, Congressman 
Gray loved Philadelphia, he loved the people he served, and every day 
he dedicated himself to making the lives of those less fortunate just a 
little bit better.
  Congressman Gray's affinity for education began long before he became 
President of the United Negro College Fund, when he was teaching in my 
home State of New Jersey. As a professor of history and religion at St. 
Peter's College, Jersey City State College, and Montclair State 
College, he helped change the lives of hundreds of young men and women 
throughout my district.
  This passion for education continued throughout his life as 
Congressman Gray became a leading advocate in changing the American 
educational system.
  To Congressman Gray, adversity was a welcome challenge. He broke down 
racial barriers as the first African-American Majority Whip Leader and 
Chairman of the House Budget Committee. He also led the charge to help 
end apartheid.
  These remarkable achievements paved the way for me and other African 
American leaders to follow.
  Despite his incredible accomplishments in Congress, Congressman Gray 
never stopped serving and always believed he could do more.
  Returning to his true passion--education--Congressman Gray became 
President of the United Negro College Fund. There, he remarkably helped 
raise more than half of UNFC's $1.6 billion in funds to help open the 
door for thousands of African-American students who merely had a dream 
and the drive to go to college. With Congressman Gray's help, those 
dreams have been turned into reality.
  I am incredibly grateful for Congressman Gray's tireless years of 
civil service and for being a model of true leadership. My condolences 
and prayers go out to his family and the people of Philadelphia during 
this difficult time. Congressman Gray will certainly be missed, but has 
left a mark on this Nation.
  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay 
tribute to a remarkable man, a former Committee Chair, Majority Whip of 
this distinguished body and an outstanding American, Congressman Bill 
Gray.
  In 1972, Congressman Gray succeeded his father to serve as the Senior 
Pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia, a position he 
held until 2007. It was through the church and his family where he 
first learned the benevolence of kindness and value of public service.
  Congressman Gray, first elected to Congress from Pennsylvania's 22nd 
District in 1979, worked tirelessly to promote the civil rights of all 
people. His dedication to this cause extended further than the 
boundaries of our country and touched countless lives. In Congress, 
Congressman Gray was instrumental in passing legislation aimed at 
ending apartheid practices in South Africa.
  Throughout his tenure in Congress, Congressman Gray achieved many 
firsts. Most notably, he rose to become Chairman of the Budget 
Committee, a first by an African American. He also served as Majority 
Whip, the top three job in the House leadership and the highest 
position occupied by an African American elected official up to that 
point.
  Congressman Gray was a strong advocate for educational policies, and 
later led the United Negro College Fund, which supports scholarship 
programs for African American students and more than three dozen 
private historically black colleges. In 1999, Congressman Gray helped 
to secure a $1 billion pledge from the Bill and Melinda Gates 
Foundation for scholarships to be administered by the fund. This is 
believed to be the largest single act of philanthropy in the history of 
American higher education.
  I had many opportunities to personally speak with Congressman Gray.
  Congressman Gray was an advocate of strong family values, as he 
displayed in his marriage with his wife, Andrea, and three sons, 
William IV, Justin and Andrew.
  Mr. Speaker, it is incumbent upon this body to acknowledge 
Congressman Gray's achievements and life of public service which have 
improved our Nation.
  On behalf of the people of the 30th Congressional District of Texas 
and the United States Congress, I extend my heartfelt sympathy and 
celebrate his life of service.
  Mrs. CHRISTENSEN. Mr. Speaker, we were all shocked and saddened to 
hear of the sudden and untimely passing of former Congressman William 
``Bill'' Gray, a former member of the Congressional Black Caucus who 
represented Philadelphia in the House of Representatives for many years 
in stellar fashion.
  William Gray was a trailblazer for African Americans and other 
minorities in Congress, an inspirational pastor, a persuasive advocate 
for education of minorities and the poor and for causes where often 
others feared to tread. He was a steadfast friend to countless of us 
and the epitome of a servant-leader.
  My first recollection of meeting him personally was poolside at the 
then St. John Virgin Grande Hotel with his and my long time friends 
Orville and Julie Kean. He had a home in St. John at the time.
  We talked late into the night and he often referred to me as a St. 
Croix Nationalist many times after that. I was also always proud of his 
calling me his Congresswoman, even after he sold the St. John home. And 
it was just days before he was suddenly taken from us that in the 
Members Dining room he remarked that he would be visiting our Islands 
in the near future. Sadly that will not happen.
  Although we did not serve together, I consider that it was a 
privilege to be able to work with him on many of the issues he 
championed as only he could--from the United Negro College Fund, to his 
work on telecommunications advances or on relations with the foreign 
governments he represented. Whenever he called we responded because he 
was always there to support us when needed. We never even had to ask.
  We will miss exuberant presence and his booming raspy voice, but not 
just the sound. What the CBC, I, our Nation and the world will truly 
miss is the strong unrelenting voice that he was for a better country 
and world and for opportunity, equality and justice for all. We have 
lost a great public servant.
  To his son Justin who was always with him, his wife Andrea and the 
other children, his church family and the people of Philadelphia who 
loved him dearly on behalf of my family, staff and the people of the 
Virgin Islands I extend my condolences. We are a better place that he 
lived. May he rest in peace.
  Mr. CARTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to join the chorus of those honoring 
the late William Herbert Gray III. Congressman Gray's 21 years in the 
House saw him rise to the Chairmanship of the Budget Committee as well 
as being elected Democratic Whip. While many have honored Bill for his 
contributions to public affairs, I would like to recognize his 
distinguished service in the corporate world.
  Following his career in the House, Gray served on the Board of Dell 
Inc. for 13 years and was an integral part of Dell's global success. In 
the corporate setting, Bill took his duties as a Board member very 
seriously. Not only did he actively participate in Board meetings, but 
he also brought his vast knowledge and experience to the daily workings 
of the company.
  During his tenure at Dell, he regularly met with Government Affairs 
and Human Relations teams, among other employee groups, to provide 
insight, guidance, and counsel. As Dell grew globally, Bill underscored 
the importance of the company engaging in a dialogue with government 
leaders in markets from the US to Europe to China. He understood that 
corporate success globally meant more jobs in the United States.
  Bill's passing was sudden and unforeseen, and a great loss to U.S. 
business and government. Michael Dell, the founder and CEO of Dell, 
shared that, ``Bill was a great friend and trusted advisor to me and 
our Board members. He brought a unique and distinctive perspective on 
our business and our industry. I valued his wisdom and insight on 
public policy matters, and benefitted greatly from his sage counsel for 
so many years.''
  I appreciate the opportunity to pause for a moment to remember the 
many ways Bill Gray served his country. Erika and I extend our deepest 
sympathies to his family, friends, and colleagues.
  Mr. CLAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize former Congressman 
William H. Gray III, who suddenly passed away last week in London. As 
politicians, we all have certain people that we looked up to as role 
models and mentors so that we could carry out our duties in a dignified 
manner. For myself, I had my father, former Congressman Bill Clay, and 
Mr. Gray. During my youth, I served as a doorman for the House of 
Representatives where I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Gray on 
numerous occasions. Over time, I had developed profound respect for Mr. 
Gray. He was a man that had a sincere interest in the concerns of his 
constituents and a man that fought for minorities across the country 
during a time when racial tensions were still high.
  Mr. Gray was elected to the Congress in 1978, representing 
Pennsylvania's 2nd Congressional District. Many remember Mr. Gray for 
his quick rise within the Democratic Party. From 1985 to 1989, Mr. Gray 
was the chairman of the House Budget Committee--the 


[[Page 10956]]



first African 
American to do so. He used his power as chairman to influence 
legislation and economic sanctions against the apartheid regime of 
South Africa, which sparked a close friendship between him and Nelson 
Mandela. In 1989, he was the first African American to serve as the 
Majority Whip and many saw this as his stepping stone to becoming the 
first African American Speaker of the House.
  Aside from the powerful roles that he assumed in Congress, Mr. Gray 
is remembered most for his contributions to the city of Philadelphia, 
through his preaching and leadership. Since 1972, Mr. Gray served as 
the pastor at Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia. Even while 
serving in Congress, Mr. Gray never lost sight of his role as the 
spiritual leader of his community. On numerous occasions, Mr. Gray 
would say, ``First and foremost, I am a Baptist preacher.'' Through his 
leadership in Congress, Mr. Gray secured needed funding for 
Philadelphia's transportation and school systems. His success in 
Congress was secured by his ability to reach across party lines in 
order to build strong bipartisan coalitions.
  Mr. Gray's story began at Simon Gratz High School in Philadelphia. 
One day, Mr. Gray's father was invited to speak to the students. Before 
taking the stage, the principal told Mr. Gray's father, ``Don't worry, 
you can keep it short; these kids aren't going anywhere.'' His father 
replied, ``I don't know about these other kids, but I know one kid who 
is going somewhere.'' His father's intuition proved to be more than 
accurate. A gifted basketball player, Mr. Gray accepted a scholarship 
to play at Franklin and Marshall College. After receiving his 
bachelor's degree, he went on to receive master's degrees from Drew 
Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary as well as 
spending time abroad studying at Oxford University in England. 
Education was held in a high regard to Mr. Gray. During the prime of 
his political career, Mr. Gray resigned from Congress to assume a 
``higher calling'' as president of the United Negro College Fund. While 
many politicians abruptly resign in light of scandal, Mr. Gray resigned 
in order to ``open the door to higher education for a million more 
black men and women.'' During his time as president, Mr. Gray 
successfully raised over $2 billion for the UNCF.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my colleagues of the Congressional Black 
Caucus and on behalf of Congressmen, past and present that were 
influenced by Mr. Gray's leadership, I would like to express my 
gratitude for his service to minorities, Congress, and to the United 
States of America. Thank you.
  Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor my friend and 
Congressman, Bill Gray. Reverend Gray was an historic figure in 
Philadelphia and in this country. His contributions to this Nation are 
well known to all of us. So, I'd like to take a moment and just focus 
on his impact in my own life.
  Bill represented my community in the House for many years. He was one 
of my most important mentors and supporters as I rose through the ranks 
in Philadelphia politics. I was a ward leader in his district and was 
proud to return his support every two years. I leaned on Bill for his 
wise counsel on how to serve my constituents. He helped me to be a 
better ward leader, a better party chair, and a better congressman. But 
the best counsel I got from Bill was not professional advice. His best 
advice was about how to be a better father and a better husband while 
doing this job. He demonstrated that philosophy by his close business 
relationship with his son, who was by his side at almost every meeting.
  During our frequent dinners, Bill would make sure I understood that I 
had to get back to Philadelphia as much as I can. He told me to put my 
family and my neighborhood first and to make sure that I didn't ever 
forget why I came to Washington in the first place.
  Bill never lost his love for Philadelphia. He and I were working 
together until the last weeks of his life. He was doing all he could to 
help our Free Libraries, to build jobs at Comcast and to protect the 
people of his beloved North Philadelphia.
  Mr. Speaker, Philadelphia, this country and this House will be much 
poorer for Bill Gray's passing. I urge my colleagues to join the entire 
Pennsylvania delegation in honoring him today.
  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to honor the 
memory of a noble public servant and trailblazer, Congressman William 
Herbert Gray, III. Congressman Gray served in Congress, representing 
Pennsylvania's Second Congressional District, with exceptional 
distinction and preeminence. He eventually became the first African 
American to be both the Chairman of the House Committee on the Budget 
and Majority Whip of the House of Representatives.
  As a leader in Congress and proud member of the Congressional Black 
Caucus, Congressman Gray used his compassion and experience to boldly 
fight for those considered the least the world over. Congressman Gray's 
impassioned fight against Apartheid in South Africa and for assistance 
to the poor were the hallmarks of his time in the House of 
Representatives.
  Mr. Speaker, I am fortunate enough to say that I figuratively stand 
on the shoulders of pioneers like Congressman Gray. I would not be 
where I am today without the work and sacrifice of individuals like 
him. I believe that when history records the legacy of Congressman 
Gray, it will honor his role as a trailblazer and passionate advocate 
for the least.

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