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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION TO HONOR GRAHAM WALLER JR ON THE OCCASION OF HIS 100TH BIRTHDAY
WHEREAS, Graham Waller, Jr. has reached a remarkable milestone in his life and was honored by family and friends at a special celebration of his “100th BIRTHDAY” on July 6, 2024; and
WHEREAS, Graham Waller, Jr. was born on July 6, 1924, in Greensboro, Georgia, and demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming racial and economic hardships; and
WHEREAS, Graham's commitment to education, exemplified by his long walks to school, despite systemic barriers, reflects his dedication to self-improvement and community betterment; and
WHEREAS, Graham began working at age 14, showcasing a strong work ethic by laboring at Knox Brothers Lumber Company and later at his uncle's sawmill, contributing significantly to his family's well-being; and
WHEREAS, Graham graduated from Greensboro Colored High School in 1941, a rare accomplishment for an African American youth in rural Georgia, embodying perseverance, and hope; and
WHEREAS, Graham moved to Chicago in 1944, working various jobs, including as a mail carrier and a model, and later became a successful entrepreneur by co-owning a gas station with his friend Calvin Vance; and
WHEREAS, Graham's spent 26 years with the Denver-Chicago Trucking Company, until his retirement in 1987; and
WHEREAS, Graham and his beloved wife Evada have shared over 62 years of marriage, raised two children, Anthony, and Pamela, and created a nurturing home filled with love and cherished memories; and
WHEREAS, Graham has been a pillar of strength and wisdom within his family, maintaining deep connections to his roots and supporting his relatives, including preserving the family farm in Georgia; and
WHEREAS, Graham's life is a testament to humility, kindness, and generosity, living by the mottos, “I try to treat people the way I would want to be treated,” and “If I can help somebody, I will;” and
WHEREAS, Graham and Evada continue to reside in their Calumet Heights home, where Graham enjoys listening to old standards, tuning into WVON, watching "60 Minutes," and sharing his rich oral history with family and friends.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby congratulate Graham Waller Jr. on his 100th Birthday. Here’s to many more happy and healthy years; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a suitable copy of this resolution be tendered to Graham Waller Jr. to commemorate this joyous occasion and his Centenarian status.
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