House Resolution 1999
By: Representative Scott of the 76th
A RESOLUTION
Honoring the life and legacy of Malinda Naomi Givens; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, Malinda Naomi Givens was born on April 24, 1902, in Leon County, Florida,
the beloved and only daughter of the late Collie and Dressie Atkins; and
WHEREAS, she received her early education through the public schools of Leon County,
laying a foundation of faith, discipline, and service that would guide her throughout her life;
and
WHEREAS, on August 24, 1923, she was converted and united with St. Mark Primitive
Baptist Church under the pastorate of Reverend S. Paramore, where she became a devoted
and faithful servant of the Lord; and
WHEREAS, immediately upon joining St. Mark Primitive Baptist Church, she committed
herself to active service, faithfully serving as church secretary for 23 years and later being
appointed to the Mother's Board in 1948, where she continued her dedicated service until her
passing; and
WHEREAS, she was joined in Holy Matrimony to Louis Givens in 1921, and together they
built a strong and loving family, raising eight children and instilling in them the values of
faith, perseverance, and unity; and
WHEREAS, she was a pillar of strength and grace within her family and community, known
for her unwavering faith, quiet dignity, and commitment to uplifting those around her; and
WHEREAS, on Saturday, August 9, 1975, at approximately 5:20 PM, Malinda Naomi
Givens peacefully transitioned from labor to reward, as the angels of Heaven came to claim
one of God's faithful servants; and
WHEREAS, she leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Louis Givens; her
loving children, Ophelia Dickey, Rosa Bell Richardson, Dorothy Lee Dorsey, Malinda
Jordan, Louis Givens Jr., Phillip Givens, and Samuel Nelson Givens; along with sons-in-law;
daughters-in-law; one uncle, Alex Allen; 42 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; one
great-great-grandchild; three god-children; and a host of cherished relatives and friends; and
WHEREAS, the life of Malinda Naomi Givens stands as a testament to faith, family, service,
and enduring love, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body honor and celebrate the remarkable life and legacy of Malinda
Naomi Givens, recognizing her contributions to her church, her family, and her community.
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 the
family of Malinda Naomi Givens.