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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING THE LIFE OF ROBERT L. ANDERSON SR., IN MEMORIAM
WHEREAS, Robert L. Anderson Sr. was born on January 26, 1940, in Greenwood, Mississippi, as the eighth child of Talmitch and Virgina Anderson. From a young age, Robert exhibited intelligence, inquisitiveness, resilience, and kindness-qualities that remained throughout his life; and
WHEREAS, in 1946, like millions of African Americans escaping the Jim Crow South, Robert and his family moved North to Chicago when he was just six years old, seeking a life free from racial oppression; and
WHEREAS, Robert's leadership qualities and steadfast Christian faith were evident from his teenage years. He joined Second Mount Vernon M.B. Church in Chicago under Pastor Willie Lee Anderson, serving diligently and using his legal education to benefit the church community. His guiding mottos were “Keep the Faith” and “Go for the Gold,” reflecting his hope and determination; and
WHEREAS, Robert received his education in Chicago's public schools, attending Douglass Elementary and Dunbar Vocational High School. He later earned a bachelor's degree in education from Chicago State University, and although he did not become an architect, he made significant contributions to education, law, and community development in Chicago; and
WHEREAS, after college, Robert became a teacher at Harrison Technical High School, where he met Johnnie Mae Anderson. They married on August 21, 1965, and together they raised their children Gail, Ivan Clisby, Robert Jr., and Alison Faye, nurturing them with commitment, kindness, and support throughout their lives; and
WHEREAS, in 1973, while raising his family, Robert earned a law degree from Kent College of Law at the Illinois Institute of Technology. He served as an attorney with the state's Employment Security Department and was appointed Deputy Mayor by the late Mayor Harold Washington, contributing to significant city projects including the O’Hare Development Project and improvements to the city’s infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, Robert’s dedication to civil rights and community empowerment was evident through his roles as legal advisor, policy shaper, and community leader. He helped design the Chicago “remap,” assisted in governance changes in Chicago Heights, and supported minorities and women in building trades; and
WHEREAS, after the Harold Washington administration, Robert co-founded the law firm Krohn, Jenkins & Anderson and continued to serve his community through various advisory roles and initiatives, including the development of the Harold Washington Archives and Collections; and
WHEREAS, during his later years, Robert embraced his role as “Baboo” to his six grandsons, attending their events and instilling values of strength, tenderness, and legacy. He remained active and supportive in their lives, passing on his example of manhood; and
WHEREAS, Robert L. Anderson, known as “The People’s Attorney,” stood strong in his service to faith, family, people, and community. He leveraged his talents to become a revered figure in the African American community, leaving a legacy of love, kindness, grace, integrity, and strength.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that on behalf of the President, the members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners and the 5.2 million residents of Cook County, this legislative body hereby extend our heartfelt condolences and come together to honor the memory of Robert L. Anderson Sr., celebrating his life, legacy and the joy he brought to all who knew him; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution is presented to Robert’s family as a token of our enduring love and support, and that it be recorded in the annals of our community as a testament to the profound impact of Robert’s life.
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