HR 36: Ensley, Mrs. Oreatha Walker; commend

House Resolution 36EX

By: Representative Scott of the 76th

A RESOLUTION

Honoring the life, legacy, and service of Mrs. Oreatha Walker Ensley; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, Mrs. Oreatha Walker Ensley was born on April 20, 1943, in Moultrie, Georgia, the sixth of nine children, and from an early age, she demonstrated the determination, discipline, and leadership that would define her extraordinary life; and

WHEREAS, she began her professional career as a Physical Education Specialist and Sixth Grade Science Teacher near Tampa, Florida, where she courageously stood alongside fellow educators during a statewide teachers' strike advocating for fairness and improved educational conditions, demonstrating her commitment to justice and professional integrity; and

WHEREAS, despite losing her position due to her participation in the strike, Mrs. Ensley remained steadfast in her calling as an educator, completing the school year teaching a combined Fourth and Fifth Grade class at a Catholic school; and

WHEREAS, before the completion of that assignment, she accepted an opportunity with the Los Angeles Unified School District and, displaying remarkable faith and courage, journeyed H. R. 36EX

across the country in 1967 with a friend, neither knowing anyone in California nor what awaited them, trusting that God would guide their path; and

WHEREAS, through determination, resilience, and faith, she built a distinguished career in education, inspiring countless students and serving as a positive role model throughout her professional life until her retirement as a respected educator; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Ensley is a proud member of the Delta Sigma Theta Chapter, where she has exemplified the ideals of scholarship, sisterhood, and community service; and

WHEREAS, her commitment to civic engagement and public service extends beyond the classroom through her work as a political activist, community advocate, and dedicated volunteer, consistently striving to improve the lives of others; and

WHEREAS, she has faithfully served her community through the Ladybug organization, numerous community service initiatives, and her leadership at the J. Charley Griswell Senior Center, where she serves as President of the Advisory Board and continues to advocate for the well-being and enrichment of senior citizens; and

WHEREAS, on December 14, 1974, she entered a loving marriage that has endured for more than five decades, exemplifying commitment, devotion, and family values; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Ensley is the proud mother of one child and has lovingly helped raise a family that reflects the values of faith, education, perseverance, and service that she has demonstrated throughout her life.

H. R. 36EX

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize and commend Mrs. Oreatha Walker Ensley for her outstanding contributions to education, community service, civic engagement, and leadership as well as extend the deepest appreciation for her lifelong commitment to uplifting others. 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. Oreatha Walker Ensley.

H. R. 36EX