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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ANNIE PEARL HOWARD
WHEREAS, the esteemed Annie Pearl Howard, born on May 6, 1938, in Jackson, Mississippi, graced this world with a presence defined by unwavering love, resilience, and boundless wisdom; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Howard was the beloved daughter of Nina Mae Jones and Johnnie “Buster” Jones, who instilled in her the values of faith, perseverance, and compassion, guiding Mrs. Howard on a journey touching the lives of many; and
WHEREAS, from Mrs. Howard’s early years, Annie Pearl embodied the essence of strength and devotion, accepting Christ into her heart and embracing the virtues of kindness and service; and
WHEREAS, after receiving her foundational education at Martin Elementary School and later attending Parker High School, Mrs. Howard exemplified the highest standard of commitment to her family, pausing her studies to return to Jackson, Mississippi, to care for her ailing father while continuing her education at Jim Hill High School; and
WHEREAS, life’s path led Mrs. Howard to New Orleans, Louisiana, where she found a love transcending time in Roosevelt “Cat/Catman” Howard, forging a union rooted in mutual respect, shared culture, and an enduring bond that withstood the tests of time; and
WHEREAS, together, Annie Pearl and Roosevelt Howard built a life filled with love and purpose, raising their children-Gwendolyn Annette, Yvette, Johnny “Man,” and Randy-with the same values of faith, community, and integrity she so passionately embodied; and
WHEREAS, in 1964, Mrs. Howard and her beloved husband returned to Chicago, Illinois, where they settled near her family home on 69th and Vernon, a sanctuary of warmth and hospitality, where the doors were always open, the aroma of home-cooked meals filled the air, and the sounds of blues music-Johnny Taylor, B.B. King, Etta James, and Bobby Bland-created a backdrop for countless cherished memories; and
WHEREAS, Annie Pearl Howard’s legacy is defined by her role as a matriarch, not only to her own children and grandchildren, but to an entire community finding solace in her nurturing spirit, wisdom-filled counsel, and unwavering presence; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Howard’s heart knew no limits-she cared deeply, loved fully, and gave selflessly, whether through a comforting meal, a listening ear, or the firm yet gentle guidance to shape generations; and
WHEREAS, the foundation of Mrs. Howard’s faith and wisdom continued to resonate in the lives of her descendants, instilling in them a profound sense of heritage, dignity, and perseverance; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Howard was preceded in death by her husband, Roosevelt Howard; her cherished son, Johnny Howard; and her beloved grandchildren, Vishon and Ashley; yet her legacy endures through the countless lives she influenced and uplifted; and
WHEREAS, Mrs. Howard leaves behind a loving and devoted family, including her brother, Pretic Buchanan, Jr.; her beloved children, Gwendolyn Annette, Yvette, Randy, and Della M. Cyrus; her 18 adoring grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and an entire community enriched by her wisdom, grace, and unwavering love; and
WHEREAS, though Mrs. Howard departed from this world, her presence remains in the laughter of her grandchildren, the unity of family gatherings, the songs that filled her home, and the enduring love that she so generously poured into the world; and
NOW, THEREFORE, WE, BILL LOWRY, COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER OF THE 3rd DISTRICT, AND TONI PRECKWINKLE, PRESIDENT OF THE COOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONER, that we, with full hearts and profound gratitude, honor the life, love, and legacy of Annie Pearl Howard, a woman of unshakable faith, immeasurable strength, and boundless love; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this resolution serves as an enduring tribute to her remarkable life, ensuring that her name, her spirit, and her impact will be forever etched in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be presented to the family of Annie Pearl Howard as a token of our deepest esteem, admiration, and gratitude of the Office of Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry 3rd. District.
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