HR1984: HR1984 Laremont, Dr. Benjamin; honoring life, legacy, and service; condolences; Dr. Benjamin Laremont Day; designate October18, 2026

26 LC 129 1506 House Resolution 1984 By: Representatives Bell of the 75th, Cannon of the 58th, Clark of the 108th, Jones of the 143rd, and Au of the 50th A RESOLUTION Recognizing and honoring the life, legacy, and service of Dr. B enjamin Laremont and1 designating October 18, 2026, as Dr. Benjamin Laremont Day; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, Dr. Benjamin Laremont was a pioneering physician, devoted family man, and3 compassionate servant whose life's work embodied excellence, resilience, and an unwavering4 commitment to the well-being of others; and5 WHEREAS, born in Panama as one of twelve children, Dr. Laremont w a s r a i s e d i n a6 household rooted in discipline, unity, and perseverance, the son of a father who contributed7 to the construction of the historic Panama Canal and a mother w hose strength and grace8 sustained their family; and9 WHEREAS, as an immigrant to the United States, Dr. Laremont pursued higher education10 with determination, attending Meharry Medical College, an insti tution renowned for11 producing physicians dedicated to advancing health equity and s erving underserved12 communities; and13 H. R. 1984 - 1 - 26 LC 129 1506 WHEREAS, Dr. Laremont made history in Peoria, Illinois, as the first Black doctor at Peoria14 Methodist Medical Center, breaking barriers and opening doors f or future generations of15 medical professionals through both his excellence and courage; and16 WHEREAS, he answered the call to serve his country as a physici an in the United States17 military, where he was stationed in Virginia and met his beloved wife and partner in purpose,18 Dr. Sylvia Laremont, with whom he shared a lifelong commitment to healing and service;19 and20 WHEREAS, together, Dr. Benjamin and Dr. Sylvia Laremont exemplified the highest ideals21 of partnership and dedication, using their medical practice as a ministry to serve countless22 individuals and families; and23 WHEREAS, upon relocating to the State of Georgia, Dr. Laremont established a trusted24 medical practice in Duluth, where he became a physician to thousands, caring for patients25 across generations and backgrounds, and earning deep respect fo r his compassion,26 accessibility, and tireless work ethic; and27 WHEREAS, Dr. Laremont extended his service across numerous communities, including his28 work at DeKalb County Jail, nursing homes, hospitals, and clini cs throughout Covington,29 Athens, and beyond, always ensuring that quality care reached those in need; and30 WHEREAS, even while facing the challenges of Parkinson's diseas e, Dr. Laremont31 continued to demonstrate extraordinary strength, dedication, an d perseverance until his32 retirement in 2021, leaving behind a legacy defined not only by medical excellence but by33 humanity and love; and34 H. R. 1984 - 2 - 26 LC 129 1506 WHEREAS, a faithful member of Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, Dr. Laremont lived35 a life grounded in faith, service, and community, touching lives both inside and outside the36 walls of the church; and37 WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the extraordinary life and legacy of Dr.38 Benjamin Laremont be recognized and commemorated, and that his contributions to39 medicine, community service, and the State of Georgia be forever remembered.40 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that41 the members of this body honor the remarkable life and legacy of Dr. Benjamin Laremont42 and commend his enduring contributions to the fields of medicin e, public service, and43 community uplift. 44 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of this body recognize October 18, 2026,45 as Dr. Benjamin Laremont Day.46 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized47 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the48 family of Dr. Benjamin Laremont.49 H. R. 1984 - 3 -