HR1982: HR1982 Gayle, Mrs. Theresa; commend
2025-2026 Regular Session · Introduced version · Last action March 27, 2026
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House Resolution 1982
By: Representative Gilliard of the 162nd
A RESOLUTION
Commending and congratulating Mrs. Theresa Gayle; and for other purposes.1
WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of one the2
City of Savannah's most stellar citizens, Mrs. Theresa Gayle, for being a faithful worker and3
loving mother who played a vital role in our community at large; and4
WHEREAS, keenly aware of the fact that family extends beyond the bloodline, Mrs. Gayle5
adopted, nurtured, and provided for many children in the neighb orhood, becoming a6
surrogate mother to those in need, and she served as a faithful beautician, doing hair for the7
ladies in the community; and8
WHEREAS, her entrepreneurial spirit allowed her to put smiles on children's faces as they9
purchased and enjoyed her homemade candy apples and thrills while providing extra income10
for her household; and11
WHEREAS, Mrs. Gayle showed up for her children at home and in s chool, serving as an12
active member of the Booster Club at Richard Arnold High School , and she was also13
involved in activities at Beach High School in support of her c hildren, where she is an14
illustrious Beach High School alum and former basketball player; and15
H. R. 1982
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WHEREAS, being employed as a domestic worker, Mrs. Gayle spent countless hours—often16
on her hands and knees—working hard taking care of the homes and families of Savannah's17
wealthy residents in order to provide for her family and ensure that they enjoyed a better life. 18
Her sacrifices did not go unnoticed and helped her instill the value of a good work ethic,19
honesty, and integrity in her children; and20
WHEREAS, she has successfully raised five children from 31st an d Habersham Street,21
rooting them in a foundation of Christian love, guidance, and s upport as well as teaching22
them that they can go anywhere from here. Inspiring them to dream big and cast a wide net,23
her children, Carl Gayle, Dr. Catherine Gayle, Eric Gayle, Jacq uelyn Edwards, and Daren24
Gayle, have all gone on to pursue rewarding careers in Savannah and beyond, making a name25
for themselves in their own right; and26
WHEREAS, Mrs. Gayle has been a pillar in her faith community as a long-time member of27
St. John Baptist Church, serving as a past president of the Usher Board and being a part of28
the Usher Ministry for decades.29
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that30
the members of this body commend Mrs. Theresa Gayle for her uns elfish, dedicated, and31
loving service to the members of her family and community; cong ratulate her on the32
remarkable occasion of her 85th birthday; and extend their most sincere best wishes for33
continued health and happiness.34
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized35
and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Mrs.36
Theresa Gayle.37
H. R. 1982
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