HR 1982: Gayle, Mrs. Theresa; commend

House Resolution 1982

By: Representative Gilliard of the 162nd

A RESOLUTION

Commending and congratulating Mrs. Theresa Gayle; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of one the City of Savannah's most stellar citizens, Mrs. Theresa Gayle, for being a faithful worker and loving mother who played a vital role in our community at large; and

WHEREAS, keenly aware of the fact that family extends beyond the bloodline, Mrs. Gayle adopted, nurtured, and provided for many children in the neighborhood, becoming a surrogate mother to those in need, and she served as a faithful beautician, doing hair for the ladies in the community; and

WHEREAS, her entrepreneurial spirit allowed her to put smiles on children's faces as they purchased and enjoyed her homemade candy apples and thrills while providing extra income for her household; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Gayle showed up for her children at home and in school, serving as an active member of the Booster Club at Richard Arnold High School, and she was also involved in activities at Beach High School in support of her children, where she is an illustrious Beach High School alum and former basketball player; and

WHEREAS, being employed as a domestic worker, Mrs. Gayle spent countless hours—often on her hands and knees—working hard taking care of the homes and families of Savannah's wealthy residents in order to provide for her family and ensure that they enjoyed a better life. Her sacrifices did not go unnoticed and helped her instill the value of a good work ethic, honesty, and integrity in her children; and

WHEREAS, she has successfully raised five children from 31st and Habersham Street, rooting them in a foundation of Christian love, guidance, and support as well as teaching them that they can go anywhere from here. Inspiring them to dream big and cast a wide net, her children, Carl Gayle, Dr. Catherine Gayle, Eric Gayle, Jacquelyn Edwards, and Daren Gayle, have all gone on to pursue rewarding careers in Savannah and beyond, making a name for themselves in their own right; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Gayle has been a pillar in her faith community as a long-time member of St. John Baptist Church, serving as a past president of the Usher Board and being a part of the Usher Ministry for decades.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend Mrs. Theresa Gayle for her unselfish, dedicated, and loving service to the members of her family and community; congratulate her on the remarkable occasion of her 85th birthday; and extend their most sincere best wishes for continued health and happiness.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Mrs. Theresa Gayle.