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“CELEBRATING BILL GRAY” mentioning the U.S. Dept of State was published in the House of Representatives section on pages H4190-H4200 on July 8, 2013.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
CELEBRATING BILL GRAY
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2013, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fattah) is recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the minority leader.
Mr. FATTAH. Mr. Speaker, let me first thank the House for setting aside this time to appropriately reflect on and to celebrate the life of service of William H. Gray--Bill Gray, as we know him--who represented my hometown of Philadelphia so very well in this Congress. But as we're going to have a number of speakers, I'll have ample opportunity to talk. So I want to move to a process in which we can acknowledge some others who want to say a few words.
General Leave
Mr. FATTAH. I first ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material into the Record on the subject of this Special Order.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Pennsylvania?
There was no objection.
Mr. FATTAH. I now yield to the gentlelady from Ohio (Ms. Fudge), who chairs the Congressional Black Caucus, for an opportunity to talk about Bill Gray and his service to our Nation.
Ms. FUDGE. I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I thank him for leading this Congressional Black Caucus Special Order hour to honor a man that was a friend to so many of us, former Congressman William H. Gray, III.
On behalf of the CBC, I send condolences to the Gray family. As you celebrate Congressman and Reverend Gray's life, know that we, too, will miss a great man. We mourn the loss of Congressman Gray and celebrate the legislator, the advocate, and the statesman, a man whose accomplishments you will hear a great deal about this evening.
But if one word defined Bill Gray's life, it is ``service.'' He served God, his Philadelphia community, our Nation, and the world with dedicated hard work, strong leadership, and a commitment to equity and justice. He broke new ground as the first African American to chair the House Budget Committee and again as the first African American majority whip in the House of Representatives.
Although I did not have the personal privilege and pleasure to serve with him, our history supports the fact that he was a brilliant negotiator, bipartisan consensus builder, and courageous policymaker.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentlelady.
Representing the city of Philadelphia was something that Bill Gray was born to do. He was just an extraordinary Member.
We have one of my colleagues who knew Congressman Gray and worked with him from her earliest days in public service, so I yield to my colleague, Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz.
Ms. SCHWARTZ. I thank my colleague for setting up this Special Order.
Bill Gray was a total guy. He would have been able to handle this; that's for sure.
I do want to start by offering my condolences to the family, to Bill Gray's religious family, his community, and actually all Philadelphians who knew him and not only respected him, but loved him and admired him for the work that he did on behalf of Philadelphia and on behalf of the Nation and on behalf of the world.
I think we've all heard a bit about his extraordinary public service both here, of course, in the House and also then when he went on to, of course, help lead the United Negro College Fund.
What I wanted to say was a little more personal. I think my colleague knows this. Congressman Fattah knows some of this history. But when I first decided to run for elected office, I went first to City Councilwoman Marian Tasco, who was part of the northwest coalition of elected officials who came out of the community that was Bill Gray and the people who he supported and provided inspiration to. She was interested in helping me run for the State senate, and she said, Well, Allyson, I'm going to help you out, but there's one really important person you're going to need to be on your side.
It's an interesting district. My district in the State senate represented northwest Philadelphia mostly and where Bill Gray lived, his house there, and much of the northwest coalition and also part of northeast Philadelphia and then eventually part of the suburbs, as well. So it is a really interesting and integrated community. It is about 40 percent African American.
I went first to see one of his chief aides. I went to see Jerry Mondesire. I'm not sure you're supposed to name names here, but it's a Special Order and we can do some of that. I went to talk with him about who I was and why I wanted to run and what I hoped to accomplish in the State senate. He thought it made some sense and gave me the opportunity to set up that meeting with Congressman Gray. I came to see him here at the Capitol actually to meet him. I think he was in the whip's office at the time, a very grand office. He was a grand man of real stature. It was a good meeting. It was actually a very good meeting, and he did agree to be supportive. We ended up working together and worked hard and won a very competitive primary. I was not the only one running in that primary who went on to win in the general election.
Congressman Gray always was supportive and encouraging, particularly when I decided to run for Congress. When I got elected to Congress, the district was very different. It didn't represent the northwest. It was a very different coalition I had to build for that. But he met with me and gave me some good advice about what to do here as a Member of Congress. He said I should serve on the Budget Committee. I'm not even sure I understood at the time that he was the chair of the Budget Committee, the first African American chair of the Budget Committee and the power he lent to that. I took his advice, and I think it was good advice. It gave me a chance to really rise here fairly quickly in Congress.
What I really want to say is that he was a man who brought great intellect, great commitment to public service, a real understanding of relationships between people and how you forge those relationships and you build on those relationships to find common ground and get things done. He did that for Philadelphia, and he did that here in Congress. He was, as I say, a spiritual leader and really made such a difference to the city.
I did get to hear him preach a couple of times; and when I went to Bright Hope to hear him preach, it was Easter morning. That's kind of a special time to be at Bright Hope, as in many churches across this country. I remember that I brought my son, who is now well-grown, and he was only about 11 or 12 at the time. I asked my son afterwards what he thought of the service and what he thought of the preacher, and my son, good Jewish boy that he is, he said, You know, Mom, it kind of makes you want to believe.
And I have to say that Bill Gray made us all want to believe not only spiritually, but believe in this country and the greatness of this country and what we could accomplish. For that, I will be always indebted and grateful to have known him, to honor his memory, and to share in the sadness at his loss and to wish his family not only condolences, but great memories of the man Bill Gray was.
Mr. FATTAH. Let me ask that we place into the Record a number of letters from local elected officials back home in Philadelphia: Councilwoman Marian Tasco, State Senator Vincent Hughes, State Senator Anthony Williams, City Councilwomen Blondell Reynolds Brown and Cindy Bass, and State Representative Dwight Evans.
Marian B. Tasco, City of Philadelphia, City Council.
To the Members of the 113th Congress: Respectfully, I join with friends, family and my constituents to submit this letter for The Congressional Record memorializing a world-class citizen, with a keen sense of purpose, a man of God, a champion at the forefront of ending apartheid in South Africa, and a man who humbly served the least of these. Over the past 40 years, I have called The Honorable William H. Gray III many things: pastor, my candidate, a mentor, my congressman, and of greatest importance to me, my friend.
Undoubtedly, Bill Gray lived a beautiful life. Having succeeded his father as pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia in 1972, I came to know Bill Gray very well. He knew best how to engage the people he was charged to lead. And, he knew how to help individuals identify their best qualities and develop and expand upon them. I credit Bill Gray for helping me to recognize my own ability to organize. Compelled to be his campaign manager when he ran for congress, and later his director of constituent services, he was a mentor to me and others locally and nationally who sought public office. He was instrumental in my run for office and election as Philadelphia's first African American City Commissioner, and strongly supported me in my bid to become council person for the Ninth District. I am forever indebted to him and grateful for his vision.
Admired for his commitment to the city of Philadelphia, Bill Gray was a powerbroker who used his influence to provide federal resources and opportunities to often underserved communities. And though he walked amongst kings, queens and heads of nations, he was never too busy to meet with his constituents, return a phone call or help someone in need.
The passing of this gentle giant is untimely, yet I hope all that mourn him will find comfort in knowing that Bill Gray leaves behind a legacy of goodness that surely withstands the test of time.
God bless Bill Gray and God bless America!
Marian B. Tasco,Ninth District Councilwoman.
____
Democratic Appropriations Chairman, Senate of
Pennsylvania,
July 8, 2013.Hon. Chaka Fattah,Congressman,Washington, DC.
Dear Congressman Fattah: I was deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Congressman William H. Gray. He was a giant in Philadelphia politics, a spiritual leader for hundreds of thousands, and a powerful force for good in Washington DC. He was also a mentor to many public officials including myself. Congressman Gray's tremendous spirit will be impossible to replace.
He was a leader in so many areas, but one of the biggest ways that Congressman Gray inspired me personally was his work against apartheid in South Africa. Congressman Gray was the sponsor of one of the first bills to prohibit loans and economic investment in that troubled country, which laid the groundwork for the eventual toppling of the regime. I started my own political activism around this issue and his work was a shining example of the good that someone can accomplish in elected office.
Congressman Gray will be missed. Now, it is the responsibility of the next generation to pick up the torch and try to follow in his footsteps. Serving from his pastorship of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia, he had a focus that was not limited to that North Philadelphia neighborhood, but was international in scope. He always concentrated on transformational change, whether it was in his 2nd Congressional District, Washington, DC, South Africa, or the World. We have truly lost a giant.
Most people will see Congressman Gray through the lens of politics. I certainly was one of the people who benefitted from his crafting of an independent progressive political movement in Philadelphia. Without his work to create a viewpoint that elected office was essentially the next step for the civil rights movement, I along with many others, probably would not have ever thought about running for political office. I sit as Democratic Chairman of the PA Senate Appropriations Committee because he had the courage to seek and to sit as Chairman of the Budget Committee of the US Congress. His willingness to grasp for what was then an unattainable high prize, gave me the confidence to seek and accomplish the same in my place of service. For that, I will always be grateful for his vision and leadership. But he also influenced a generation of young people to become community leaders, public servants, and business leaders, and to not be limited by the traditions of their profession, but to see themselves also as transformative servant leaders, who never forgot their roots, but who always reached for the broader mission.
Congressman Gray had a unique ability to reach the common humanity that exists in all of us, in order to bring people together from varied, often times from widely diverging backgrounds. That singular talent allowed him to travel and be comfortable in almost any setting. It also allowed him to accomplish some of his greatest achievements. From his South Africa Anti-Apartheid work, to his rise to the position as the first African-American to serve as Whip in the US Congress, to his leadership of the United Negro College Fund, his ability to connect with people from the board room, the barrio, and the backwater, served him and all of us well.
Congressman Gray never thought, nor acted small. He was local in his pastorship, and his congressional district, always there to preach the word or to attend a community meeting, and to bring home the ``bacon'' to his constituents. But his transformational vision and service was big and impactful on the grandest of stages--the world. Those of us who have followed in his footsteps have been deeply influenced by his trail blazing path. It remains our hope that we can have the same intensely deep, and wide ranging impact that he has had. It remains our job to truly make a difference in the lives of the people we serve, never settling for less either in our selves or in others. On behalf of myself, my family, the constituents of the 7th Senatorial District, and for the countless faceless people who he never knew, and for those generations yet to come whose lives he have impacted, we thank Bill, our good and faithful servant. His race has been run, and it has been run so very well.
Sincerely,
State Senator Vincent Hughes,
Democratic Chairman of the PA Senate
Appropriations Committee.
____
Democratic Whip,
Senate of Pennsylvania,
July 8, 2013.
Andrea Gray and Family: It was with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of the Rev. William H. Gray III, a man whose imprint on our spiritual, social, and political worlds has been unmatched in the modem era. While Bill had tansitioned to a more restful and relaxing life in recent years, his influence could still be felt. His death comes as a great loss for generations, not just in Philadelphia, but across the nation.
Do accept my family's deepest condolences.
Certainly, Bill had a springboard to the success he achieved, with solid examples and expectations presented by his father, and his father before him. But what he managed to erect during his time with us deserves lasting admiration and appreciation. From his ground-breaking post in the U.S. Congress to helming the storied Bright Hope Baptist Church to steering the venerable United Negro College Fund, he helped to cement opportunity and guided the aspirations for countless people. My father and I, as did our entire organization, held Bill in great esteem because of the selfless public service to which he dedicated much of his life.
Above all, he was a man who cherished his family, and without a doubt you will miss him the most.
Do know that if I can be of any service to you during this difficult time, please feel free to call on me.
Sincerely,
Anthony H. Williams,
State Senator--8th District.
____
City of Philadelphia
City Council,
July 5, 2013.
To the Family, Friends and Colleagues of the Honorable William H. Gray, III: I am still in a state of shock. Congressman Bill Gray really made a mark on my political career. It was Congressman Gray who first mentioned, inspired and urged me to go to my first Democratic National Convention in 1984. Because of that ``nudging'' I have been to 7 of the last 8 DNC Conventions.
I was also astonished by his gift as a Pastor, having been a longtime member of Bright Hope Baptist Church. If you had the privilege of hearing his sermons, you know that his knowledge of the Bible equaled his knowledge of the Constitution.
I join the legions of adoring admirers who will miss his footprint. He was a leader who distinguished himself as a minister, educator, Congressman and father. In all these roles, he made excellence his standard while never losing the common touch.
My heart and prayers go out to his family. We thank them for sharing him with the City of Philadelphia and the nation.
We must all remember that God gives us work to do on earth and then he calls us home.
In Service,
Blondell Reynolds Brown,
Councilwoman At-Large.
____
City of Philadelphia
City Council,
July 3, 2013.
Gray Family and Bright Hope Baptist Church Congregants: It is with deep regret that I express to your family and friends my sincere sympathy on the passing of the beloved former U.S. Rep. William H. ``Bill'' Gray, 3rd.
Congressman Gray was a progressive leader unlike any other we have seen, or are likely to ever see again. He was a political titan, a man committed to his community, and a man of faith. Bill Gray was a leader in Philadelphia during a difficult time in its history, determined to help our city become better and stronger.
Many politicians in Philadelphia owe their careers to Bill Gray, as he was known for encouraging people to become active in politics. I join them, Congressman Gray's family, and countless others whose lives he touched in mourning this great man.
My sincere sympathy,
Cindy Bass, Member,Philadelphia City Council, 8th District.
____
House of Representatives,
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
July 3, 2013.
Dear Gray Family: It is with profound sorrow that I extend my condolences to you on the passing of your loved one, the Honorable William H. Gray. Honorable was not just part of his title, Honorable was the man. A staunch supporter and protector of the underdog, the disenfranchised and the unprotected, Congressman Gray's passing will long be felt by those who benefited from his tenacity.
Congressman Gray blazed trails and set precedents that those of us who follow in his stead will spend our entire careers attempting to emulate. He was a fighter, a bold strategist who understood the workings of government and used that knowledge for the betterment of those that he represented.
I can imagine that these next upcoming days and weeks will be difficult for you. However, I can only hope that the great legacy that Congressman Gray leaves behind will bring you comfort. Defending ones belief in the face of adversity, never allowing limitations to limit you, being committed to a principle and a people in spite of popular beliefs, and winning against impossible odds, is what the Honorable Congressman William H. Gray stood for and the mantle that he has left for the rest of us to take up.
Wishing you peace and blessings.
Sincerely,
Dwight Evans,
203rd Legislative District.
Mr. FATTAH. I now yield to the gentleman from Georgia, Sanford Bishop.
Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. I thank the gentleman for yielding, and I thank him so much for having this Special Order so that we can celebrate the life of our friend and mentor, Bill Gray.
Shakespeare wrote:
All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players; they have their exits and their entrances, and one man in his time plays many parts.
So it was with Reverend-Doctor-Congressman Bill Gray. He was a son, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a preacher--Union Baptist in Montclair, New Jersey, Bright Hope in Philadelphia. He pastored my great, great aunt, Aunt Mini, for whom my mother was named. He was a businessman. He was a mentor. He was a servant. He was a legislator. You've heard budget chairman, majority whip of this House of Representatives. He was a bridge builder, particularly in education, understanding that education is an escalator to upward mobility. And he made it possible for thousands and thousands of young people to get a college education. He was a great corporate citizen.
He was my friend, a confidant. He gave many items of sage advice and counsel. He was an avid supporter in coming to Georgia to support me when I was a State legislator. He supported me when I ran for Congress and continued to support me for reelection. And, of course, he was a wonderful friend, and we developed a wonderful relationship. I will miss him greatly.
His 71 years are but a minute in eternity, but I have to just reflect and say that he did so much with his minute. The poet wrote:
I have only just a minute,Only 60 seconds in it.Forced upon me, can't refuse it.Didn't seek it, didn't choose it.But it's up to me to use it,I must suffer if I loose it,Give account if I abuse it.Just a tiny little minute,But an eternity lives in it.
We're so thankful that Bill Gray passed this way and touched all of our lives and made such a difference, because he certainly did so much for so many for so long with his minute on the stage of this life.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman for that recitation of God's prayer.
Now you'll hear from someone who actually served with Bill Gray, who was his colleague in more ways than one, because Bill Gray was also a member of the greatest college fraternity. He was an Alpha. I now yield to the gentleman from New York, Congressman Rangel.
Mr. RANGEL. Let me first congratulate and thank my colleague, Congressman Fattah, for putting together this moment. I know this is going to be one of a series of tributes that we're going to have that reminds me how we all feel as we lose a dear friend, that we could have done more, we should have done more, we could have kept in touch a lot more.
My chief of staff, Patrick Swygert, was a good friend of Pastor Bill Gray, and he got me involved in a couple of campaigns for Congress. One was not too successful and very embarrassing, and the other one, of course, brought him to the House.
Bill Gray, even though he was known throughout the world, he had a personality that once you started talking with him, his charm, his wit would allow you to believe that you had known him all of his life.
He invited me a couple of times to visit Bright Hope, and I listened to one of his sermons. It was the first time that I felt so utterly proud of being a Member of Congress, being a Democrat, and knowing Bill Gray. Because as he took this spiritual sermon and wrapped it around, he reminded me, and should remind so many others in public service, that there was hardly anything that was in that Bible, that no matter what your religion was, that you shouldn't have some compassion for: the children that are just a miracle of life that are born; the older people that have served and are now among the most vulnerable; the sick, the disabled; those that have emotional problems; being able to get a decent education so at least you have some of the tools that are necessary to negotiate what is sometimes called an ``unfair world.''
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And among all of the Biblical things that he was talking about, how he tied that into the educational projects that you became a leader in, Congressman Fattah, which nobody in the country has done more for education than you have, and he spins right off with the United Negro College Fund organization, to make certain that education was such an important factor. When it came to Medicaid and Medicare, when it came to programs providing food for those people that were starving, all of this in that sermon, it made it sound like he was saying that these are the things that we've campaigned for, these are the things that we've fought for.
So I guess instead of just feeling guilty that we had not kept in touch on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, the work that he has really started, in Philadelphia, in the United States Congress, in South Africa and throughout the world, there is so much that has not been completed. And because such a great leader has succeeded him and comes out of that same family that brought people together in Philadelphia, and you try so hard to do it right here in this House of Representatives, this work is still not completed, the mission has not been accomplished. So those of us who knew and loved him so much, if we missed saying good-bye when he was well, we can pick up where he left off and make certain that his destination is reached by as many people as he brought over the line.
Thank you so much for having this Special Order.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
It is true that Bill Gray traveled a great distance in his life--born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to his date of expiration in London--but he did so much in that period of time to make this world a better place.
I want to yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Waters) so she can talk about the life and legacy in service, the extraordinary public service, of our former colleague, Bill Gray.
Ms. WATERS. Thank you so very much. I would like to first take a moment to thank you, Congressman Chaka Fattah, for putting together this moment for us to reflect on the life and legacy of Bill. I want you to know that we are so pleased that you're carrying on in his style and his tradition. Thank you so very much for this evening.
I rise today deeply saddened by the sudden passing of my friend and former colleague, Congressman Bill Gray. He was loved by everyone, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him. I feel fortunate to have had the distinct honor of working with him over the years as both a colleague and a dear friend. I join the people of Philadelphia and Americans across the Nation in mourning the loss of an effective leader and passionate advocate of the public good. Bill Gray will certainly be missed.
First elected in 1978, Congressman Gray's 12 years in Congress were marked by extraordinary achievement. Not only was he was the first African American to serve as chairman of the House Budget Committee, he was also the first African American to serve as majority whip. In addition to his outstanding leadership, Congressman Gray's skill as a politician and orator raised awareness about the talent of the Congressional Black Caucus.
During his tenure, Congressman Gray also authored legislation that implemented economic sanctions against South Africa during apartheid. As our thoughts and prayers are with Nelson Mandela, we must remember and appreciate the fact that it was Congressman Gray who spearheaded Federal efforts to eradicate apartheid.
Bill Gray was a close friend both to my husband and me long before I entered Congress. At Bill's invitation, I was honored to serve as guest speaker at Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia, where Bill served as pastor until his retirement in 2007. My husband regularly played tennis with Bill in Washington, D.C., and many cities across this Nation.
Bill was a strong and influential advocate for his constituents in Philadelphia and Americans around the country. I extend my sincerest condolences to his wife, Andrea, and their three sons, William, IV, Justin, and Andrew, during this difficult time.
I would just like to share with you--when I first came to the Congress of the United States, Bill embraced me and he took me on my first codel. We went to the Middle East. Here's a picture of us in Israel. It was the first codel that I went on. I watched Bill, how he conducted himself, how he dealt with the dignitaries and the heads of states, and I've tried to model him all of these years. So I have a lot to be thankful for. We are saddened, but I am so pleased that I had the opportunity to learn from him, and I certainly admired him so very much.
Thank you very much for organizing this opportunity for us to share our thoughts about him today. Thank you, Chaka.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentlelady.
I didn't get a chance to travel with Bill Gray as a Member because obviously he was here before I arrived, and by the time I got here, he was gone. But I do remember flying on Air Force One with President Clinton, and we flew into the heart of Africa, and we walked into a meeting with President Nelson Mandela. And in talking with the President, I explained that I represented Philadelphia. He said, Bill Gray's seat. That will resonate for all of time that Bill Gray had such an impact that this man was able to walk out of prison after 27 years and become President in part because of the leadership on this House floor to do away with constructive engagement and say, No, we need as a Nation to take the right moral position, along with Congressman Dellums and others. Rangel was in it. It was indispensable to helping South Africa make that transition.
So I want to move from California now to another little, small, tiny State--I'm sorry, excuse me, Texas. Let me yield to the great gentlelady from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).
Ms. JACKSON LEE. Let me thank my classmate, and we certainly owe him a debt of gratitude for the respect that he is allowing us to show on the floor of the House in honor of the Honorable William H. Gray, III. I, too, want to offer my sympathy to his wife, Andrea, to Bill Gray, who we often saw with him, and he would be really at his side. Bill and Andrea and Justin and Andrew, I offer to them enormous concern for the loss of this great, great champion.
I, too, want to lift my voice and say that Bill Gray wore many hats. On behalf of the faith community in Houston, the faith community in Texas, I want the Gray family to know that my pastors recognize and respected Bill Gray. In fact, when we would see each other, and I did not, as Chaka has said, have an opportunity to serve with him, but when we would see each other, he would ask about this pastor or that pastor, and it gave me a sense of friendship but also a sense of connectedness to Bill by saying, oh, they like you, too, or they said hello as well, because Bill was so respected.
If I might say on this floor, Bill Gray was a child of God. Although we are going to say so many things about him, I think it is appropriate to say that he loved his church and his ministry. My pastors across Texas are praying for his family.
I want to cite a few things that I think are so much a part of his DNA and his legacy, to be able to be a son of a mother and father who were premier educators in the life of historically black colleges, to be able to see him carry their leadership and move it to the United Negro College Fund, which is where I first came to know him, having not served with him in his work, but I knew him earlier because he and Mickey Leland were dear friends. And you can be assured that Mickey never left Washington up here. Whenever he would come home, he would share his stories with us, who looked up and thought these stories of grandeur, of leadership, of good fights to make things better, and we would hear about Bill Gray, his friend.
I remember Mickey leading the Congressional Black Caucus and bringing them to Houston. Bill Gray was there, and they were talking about what a challenge it was to leave Washington, but they were glad to come to then not really the fourth-largest city in the Nation, but to come down South and show what the Congressional Black Caucus represented.
So I want to say that we are grateful for the courage but also the astuteness of his success: 56 years in the United Negro College Fund,
$1.6 billion, $1.5 billion, one-half of that was raised under Bill Gray. He was serious about his work.
Sometimes we don't understand, and this is, of course, for the Congressional Record, because my Members do, but first are to be respected. And it should be known that our colleague, Bill Gray, was the first African American to rise to the level of leadership which he did. We say the words ``majority leader,'' we say the words ``chairman of the Budget Committee,'' we say the words ``chair of the Democratic Caucus,'' but he was the first. He will forever be in the annals of history, and I think it is absolutely key that that is the case.
I want to cite the bills, as my colleague from California said, I want to call them out: H.R. 1460, the Anti-Apartheid Action Act of 1985; and the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986, H.R. 4868. Those were the guys who came together--we've mentioned Ron Dellums and the whole expanse of Members at that time who stood resolved that this Nation would not diminish its democratic ideals by engaging with South Africa. And I think courageously he took a stand that we are so proud of.
He was, of course, respected in Washington and appointed by the President as an adviser and received a Medal of Honor from the Haitian President Aristide. He took leadership and he took it with a great sense of dignity.
Let me conclude my comments by indicating that Bill Gray always had a smile on his face. He never stopped working. There were many times he came to my office not as a former majority leader but for an issue that he may have had. As I know he went into many Members' offices, particularly members of the Congressional Black Caucus. It was always uplifting, but Bill Gray always had a story of encouragement. He always had a smile and a deep laugh. He was a good man, and I want to leave this floor by saying good men, good people die young. But what we will always remember is that Bill Gray walked in giant steps, not because of his height but because of his service to America, his love of God, his love of people, and his love of his family. He will be forever missed, and he will be forever remembered. God bless him. God bless his family, and God bless his service.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of a great American, Congressman William ``Bill'' Gray, who served more than a decade in this great body.
Today, Members of both the House and the Senate and people around this great Nation mourn the passing of a legislator, a politician, a pastor, a teacher, a public servant and most of all a larger-than-life patriot.
The United States, the State of Pennsylvania and Congress have lost a true hero in Congressman Bill Gray. My heart went out to his family, and the constituents he represented upon learning of his passing last week. Congressman Gray was a true patriot and devoted his time here on earth to serving others in his district, state, country, and around the world. His presence with us will be deeply missed, but I know that his legacy will live on for decades to come.
Congressman Bill Gray was born on August 20, 1943 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, but he spent most of his childhood in Florida, where his father served as the president of Florida Normal and Industrial College, which later became Florida A8zM University.
Congressman Gray, like his father, was a strong supporter of education and leading advocate for strengthening America's educational systems. He earned several degrees: a bachelor's degree in 1963 from Franklin and Marshall College, a Master's of Divinity in 1966 from Drew Theological Seminary, and another Master's in Church History from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1970. Additionally, he was awarded more than 65 honorary degrees from America's leading colleges and universities.
Born into a family of ministers and educators, Congressman Gray carried on his family traditions until his death. At an early age, he accepted his calling to become a preacher, and from that day, he proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus in the church, in the community, and even in the halls of Congress. His faith was unshakable and undeniable; it was evident that he lived his life based upon what he preached.
Congressman Gray was the pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia for more than 25 years, a church pastored by his father and grandfather. Under his leadership, the congregation grew to more than 5,000 plus members, and the church served tens of thousands citizens in the community.
In addition to his church ministry, Congressman Gray served as a faculty member and professor of history and religion at St. Peter's College, Jersey City State College, Montclair State College, Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Temple University. He spent countless hours outside of the classroom preparing students for success.
Elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1978, Congressman Gray was a persistent voice for equal rights, educational access, and opportunity for all persons, in the United States and abroad. He pushed tirelessly for more economic aid for Africa and was a leading critic of the South African apartheid.
In 1985, Congressman Gray was elected as the first African American Chair of the House Budget Committee where he introduced H.R. 1460, the
``Anti-Apartheid Action Act of 1985'', which prohibited loans and new investment in South Africa and imposed sanctions on imports and exports with South Africa. This bill was an instrumental precursor to the Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 (H.R. 4868). Congressman Gray played a leading role in shaping United States policy toward South Africa, and awakening America to the moral imperative of ending apartheid and other injustices abroad.
In 1989, Congressman Gray was elected to serve as the chairman of the Democratic Caucus and later that year was elected Majority Whip. He was the first African American to hold these positions and his success inspired a generation of African American elected officials.
In 1991, Congressman Gray resigned from Congress to become the president and chief executive officer of the United Negro College Fund, UNCF, America's oldest and most successful black higher education assistance organization. As president, Congressman Gray led the UNCF to new fund-raising records while cutting costs and expanding programs and services. Approximately one-half of the more than $1.6 billion raised in UNCF's history was collected during Congressman Gray's tenure.
During the Clinton Administration, Congressman Gray served as President Clinton's special adviser on Haiti. He assisted President Clinton in developing and carrying out policy to restore democracy to Haiti. As a result of his commitment to Haiti, Congressman Gray and President Clinton received the Medal of Honor from Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.
Congressman Gray will always be, in a word, a giant--of Philadelphia, of Congress, and of our country. He was a leader and a trailblazer for the people he represented. His mission was to help people live better lives, to do the work of his Christian faith, to advance the moral evolution of humankind, to make public policy that provided education, and to bring justice and joy to all human beings one decent act at a time.
Congressman Gray's strong, powerful, and influential voice will be missed. Philadelphia, the United States and the world have lost a great statesman in Congressman William ``Bill'' Gray. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Mr. FATTAH. Thank you.
All of us have expressed our condolences to the Gray family, his lovely wife and three sons, but I want the Members to take note that we have with us this evening a number of Bill Gray's former staff members who are here and they are in the gallery, and I would just ask that we appropriately acknowledge their presence.
I would like to yield to the gentleman from the great State of New York, Congressman Meeks.
Mr. MEEKS. I want to thank the gentleman for organizing the opportunity to say thank you. First, thank you to God for sending us Bill Gray. Thank you to God for having an individual who understands who he was, where he came from, and how he got here, and never forgetting about those least than he. Bill Gray knew what his purpose was in life. Many individuals go through this thing that we call life and never find out what our purpose is. But all you have to do is to look at the works of Bill Gray, and you know his purpose was to serve people, to serve people who needed a hand up, to serve people who sometimes are forgotten about, to serve people to make sure that their tomorrow was better than their yesterday.
When I think of Bill Gray, one of the first things that I was told when I got elected to Congress, by an individual who looked up to him, my predecessor, the Reverend Floyd H. Flake, said that Reverend Gray inspired him because, like Reverend Gray, Reverend Flake had a large congregation.
{time} 2000
And he understood how he could take that skill, being a minister, and help the masses.
In fact, I can recall a statement made by Representative Gray when he was appointed, when he was elected the chair of the Budget Committee. They asked him, What do you know about budgets?
He said, Have you ever been the pastor of a Baptist church? And he showed that he did understand budgets and money, and how to deal with it, and he did it in such a masterful way.
He also understood the world, and the global world. Even the last few conversations I had with him were about the world, were about going out to countries, whether they be on the continent of Africa or right here in North America, whether it was in the Western Hemisphere, and how he could help people, all people, but especially people of African descent, so that they too can rise and see and accomplish all that they could be.
So death is always--and I send my condolences to the family--it's a sad thing. But when one has had such a stellar life, when one has made the kind of contributions, it's a celebration. It's a celebration that we need to thank God for, and we need to thank the fact that God sent him here so that he could be that bright and shining star for all to see and many to follow.
He leaves a legacy for us to follow. We will follow. We will miss him, but we thank him for his service to mankind.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman and also would like to thank all who have assisted the family at this time, including the United States Department of State, which assisted in dealing with some of the issues around the death of Bill Gray in another country. And I want to thank them.
I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Lee).
We have about 20 minutes left. The gentlelady's going to have 2 minutes, the speaker that follows her is going to have 2 minutes, and then we're going to be going down towards 1\1/2\ minutes from that point forward in order to make sure that everyone has a chance to make comments. And I will reserve the last 4 minutes for myself.
Ms. LEE of California. I want to thank the gentleman for yielding time and for leading our efforts tonight to celebrate the life of our beloved Bill Gray.
I first want to extend my condolences to his loving wife, Andrea, and his three sons.
My thoughts and prayers are with Bill's family, his extended family, friends, the Bright Hope Baptist Church family in Philadelphia and, of course, the residents of Philadelphia.
I know that tonight, Bill's friend and colleague, my predecessor and good friend, Ron Dellums, also sends his sympathy and prayers to Bill's family and friends.
When Congressman Gray was elected to Congress in 1978, I was a member of then-Congressman Ron Dellums' staff. Congressman Gray hit the ground running, became chair of the Democratic Caucus, majority whip, and chair of the Budget Committee.
As the first African American in many of his positions, he was truly a trailblazer and paved the way for many of us to follow.
As a congressional staffer, I worked closely with his staff, and thank you so much for recognizing them. I worked with almost every one of them who are here tonight, and we worked so closely on so many issues, especially education, and his efforts with Congressman Dellums to put the United States on the right side of history relating to sanctions against then-racist apartheid South Africa.
Congressman Gray treated staff with respect, and he valued their counsel and their hard work. And so I know that all of Congressman's Gray's staff, former staff, those who are here, and others, mourn his loss and send their sympathies.
In recalling so many wonderful memories of Bill, one stands out for me like no other. In 1980, Congressman Bill Gray led a congressional delegation to Sierra Leone in West Africa to participate in what was then the Africa-America Institute's conference.
I was privileged to represent my boss, Ron Dellums, on this mission, and Singleton McAllister, his staffer, was on that visit. Now, this was my first visit to the land of my ancestors, so it was exciting, and it was a moving visit for me.
On the plane were many dignitaries, including Ambassador Andrew Young.
Now, the leader of congressional delegations had input into the menus served on the plane. In Bill's typical way, he decided the delegation should have soul food on the journey to Africa. We had fried chicken, greens, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and peach cobbler.
We visited several countries on this trip, and I was amazed and so proud of Congressman Gray's command of the issues in each country and his diplomacy with African leaders.
I had the privilege to worship at the Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia and learned what a great, prophetic, and Spirit-filled preacher he was. And I also marveled at how every weekend he was in his church preaching.
I had many memorable talks with him about religion and politics. He was dedicated to his country, his church, his constituents and, most importantly, his God, and he understood very clearly the importance of the separation of church and state.
What an incredible human being he was. I have so many memories that I could share, but in the interest of time, I cannot do that tonight.
But I just want to say that when Bill Gray learned I was running for Congress in '98, he became one of my most consistent supporters and my dear, dear friend. We had many conversations on the phone, many meetings; and I'll always remember his words of encouragement and wisdom.
I will miss the Honorable Congressman Reverend Bill Gray tremendously. He touched my life in so many ways, and for that he will always have a place in my heart.
May his legacy live. May he rest in peace.
Mr. FATTAH. Mr. Speaker, I will place in the Record a number of letters from local elected officials: State Senator LeAnna Washington, State Senator Stack, and a number of State legislators, including my own, Vanessa Brown, and J.P. Miranda.
Senate of Pennsylvania,
July 3, 2013.
Dear Members of the United States House of Representatives: It was with sadness an shock that I received the news of the untimely passing of The Honorable William H. Gray, III.
Former Congressman Gray was a leader to African-American elected officials throughout Pennsylvania, but he was first and foremost a native son of Philadelphia. There is no elected official in the city of Philadelphia that has not been mentored or inspired by Congressman Gray. His legacy--that of serving his constituents through not only his Christian faith, but as an elected official--and his dedication to ensuring a brighter future for young African-American students through the United Negro College Fund--will not be one repeated in our lifetime.
My condolences to all those who knew, respected, and loved Philadelphia's Bill Gray. He will truly be missed on many levels.
Sincerely,
LeAnna M. Washington,
4th Senatorial District, Philadelphia &Montgomery Counties.
____
Senate of Pennsylvania,
July 3, 2013.
To All Members of Congress: I was deeply saddened by the passing of former Congressman, Rev. William H. Gray. Congressman Gray served his country, his community and his family with grace, honor and integrity. I will never forget his spirit and how he treated everyone with kindness, respect and dignity. He was a pillar in Washington and in the community. He will be sorely missed.
Reverend Gray represented the Second Congressional District of Pennsylvania and rose to become Majority Whip of the House of Representatives, the first African American to earn that post. My family has a long history in Philadelphia politics and Bill Gray was always there for Philadelphia; standing up for what is right and using his position of power for equality. As the Chairman of the Budget committee, Congressman Gray made sure Philadelphia was properly represented on all issues. He was a pioneer in the legislature, bridging the needs of many different people and constituencies on many different issues. As a minister, Rev. Gray preached about brotherhood and unity. As a father, Bill was a gentle soul whose family always came first.
The memory of William H. Gray will live on not only in written history, but in all of the lives that he touched. Whether it was a foreign dignitary or a constituent, Bill Gray was a gracious man, a caring man, and a leader. Our lives are richer for having known him.
Sincerely,
Senator Mike Stack,5th Senatorial District.
____
Pennsylvania Legislative Black
Caucus,
July 5, 2013.Hon. Chakkah Fattah,2301 Rayburn HOB,Washington, DC.
Dear Congressman Fattah: As you are aware, our nation lost one of its greatest and most esteemed political figures last week, former Congressman William H. Gray III. The many superlatives and praises upon which is due to this statesman pales in comparison to the overall impact and influence that his life has had upon me personally, as well as upon the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus' (PLBC) membership collectively.
One of the many lessons gleaned from former Congressman Gray was that greatness is not born, but is instead nurtured, fostered and developed. It is with this particular principle that Congressman Gray inspired countless of our nation's leaders, politicos and captains of industry to aspire for greatness and success. However, most importantly, Congressman Gray was keen on emphasizing that prosperity is devoid of true meaning unless one is inclined to share that path to success with others.
Congressman Gray's life, through his words and actions, serves as a veritable testament to the unlimited possibility of what can be achieved through faith, hard work and determination, irrespective of race or ethnicity. Therefore, the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus would like to take this opportunity to formally recognize and honor his life and innumerable contributions to the African-American community, as well as to our society-at-large.
Sincerely,Vanessa Lowery Brown,
Chairwoman, Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus, State Representative, 190th Legislative District.
____
House of Representatives,
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Harrisburg, July 4, 2013.
Dear Speaker of the House: Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to express my humble gratitude. I cannot tell you enough on how much I appreciated having a great role model during my life time such as the late former Congressman William H. Gray III.
In every generation there is always some great person who has contributed so much to society but what distinguished Congressman Gray out from all the rest was not only did he impact our generation but he also done it during some very crucial and critical moments in history.
Congressman William H. Gray III has done many great things as a leader for me and other individuals and for the community as a whole. Growing up in northern Philadelphia it was extremely an honor to have been able to have someone that you could admire and respect as a leader and father figure.
Congressman Gray stood above all the rest for me because he has help to open the doors to many opportunities; one in particular was the supporting efforts that ended Apartheid in South Africa in addition to his huge contribution and support of education, especially towards the Negro College Fund which has given many young men and women a chance to soar into vibrant and productive leaders into society.
Again, I thank you for allowing me the opportunity to express my condolences on behalf of the late former Congressman William H. Gray III and let it be known that on this day the 4th of July 2013, that he will never be forgotten.
Sincerely,
J. P. Miranda,State Legislator--197th District.
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Legislative Reference Bureau
condolences
In the Senate,
Whereas, The Senate of Pennsylvania mourns the loss of the Honorable William Herbert Gray III, a former member of the United States House of Representatives, who passed away on July 1, 2013, at the age of seventy-one; and
Whereas, Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on August 20, 1941, Mr. Gray was a graduate of Franklin and Marshall College, Drew Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary. He became the senior minister at the Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia in 1972 and represented the 2nd Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives from 1978 until 1991. Lauded as the first African-American to serve as Majority Whip, Mr. Gray was also the first to chair the House Budget Committee, during which time he introduced an influential anti-apartheid bill. President and Chief Executive Officer of the United Negro College Fund from 1991 until 2004, he served as a special advisor to the President and Secretary of State for Haitian Affairs in 1994 and was named to the PoliticsPA list of Pennsylvania's Top Political Activists. A cofounder of Gray Loeffler LLC, Mr. Gray served as a Director of Dell, J.P. Morgan Chase and Company, Rockwell International Corporation, Pfizer, Visteon Corporation and Prudential Financial, Inc. He retired from the Bright Hope Baptist Church in 2007; and
Whereas, Mr. Gray represented many things to many people, among them a beloved family member, dedicated worker and avowed community steward who generously gave of his heart and time to enhance the quality of life of his family and community; now therefore be it
Resolved, That the Senate of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania note with great sadness the passing of the Honorable William Herbert Gray III, whose life greatly benefited all those who lived, served and worked with him; and extend heartfelt condolences to his wife, Andrea Dash Gray; three sons, William IV, Justin and Andrew; and many other family members and friends; and be it further
Resolved, That a copy of this document, sponsored by Senators Shirley M. Kitchen, Lawrence M. Farnese, Jr., Vincent J. Hughes, Michael J. Stack, Christine M. Tartaglione, LeAnna M. Washington and Anthony Hardy Williams, be transmitted to Andrea Dash Gray.
____
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,
Department of the Auditor General,
Harrisburg, PA, July 3, 2013.
It is fitting that we honor the life and accomplishments of the late Congressman William H. Gray, III. As the first African American to chair the House Budget Committee and serve as Majority Whip in Congress, Congressman Gray was an inspiration to other politicians across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, as well as the nation. In these roles, he used his skills as a negotiator and coalition builder to work with members on many issues of importance, including spending cuts that did not affect the most vulnerable in our nation. Throughout his life, he was a staunch supporter of strengthening our educational system; supporting black colleges and universities and, during his time as President of the United Negro College Fund, working diligently to help minority students receive a college education.
His strong faith permeated his entire life and career. Serving as a spiritual advisor to many, his combined role as pastor and public servant allowed him to preach to both his congregation and his constituents. He directed his life towards service to God and country and he demonstrated it in everything he did. Congressman Gray will be remembered for his everlasting commitment to public service and empowering people to reach new heights.
I am deeply saddened by the loss of this great man and extend my condolences to his family and friends.
Eugene A. DePasquale,Auditor General.
____
Tribute to William H. Gray, III
(By Ralph Nurnberger)
Former House Majority Whip William H. Gray, III, who passed away on July 1 while visiting London, was my colleague in the firm Gray Global, my tennis buddy for almost thirty years and most important, my friend.
Three weeks before his fateful trip, Bill Gray's 97 year old mother was able to meet President Barack Obama for the first time. She told him that she never thought she would live to see the day when an African American could be elected President.
President Obama responded by telling her how much he respected and admired her son. In this, he is not alone.
The key to understanding the life of this extraordinary man was his sense of mission, essentially a commitment to helping others and making the world a better and more peaceful place.
After graduating from Franklin and Marshall University and earning Master of Divinity degrees at Drew University Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary, Bill became a minister at Union Baptist Church in Montclaire, New Jersey. While pastoring at Union, Bill was also a professor of religion and history at St. Peter's College. He later taught at Jersey City State College, Montclair State, Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Temple University.
Bill spent thirty-five years as the Pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia. He succeeded his father, who had, in turn succeeded his father as the Pastor.
Shortly after assuming this pulpit, Martin Luther King, Jr. advised Bill never to stop his work at the Church, regardless of whatever else he might do in life. When the Church grew and opened its new facility, Bill and his father; and King and his father all preached on the same Sunday. This was the only time that King and his father both preached at the same place on the same day outside of Atlanta.
Bill never forgot King's admonition and continued his leadership at the Church, going to Philadelphia to preach almost every Sunday.
Bill was first elected to Congress in 1978 and served as the Representative from the Second Congressional District of Pennsylvania for thirteen years.
He was the first African American to head his Party's Caucus in the House of Representatives; the first to Chair a financial committee (Budget) in the House; and the highest ranking African American in U.S. legislative history (to date) when he became the Majority Whip. He still has the distinction of being the highest ranking Member of the Pennsylvania Congressional Delegation to serve in the House. In 1988, his Party selected him to chair the Presidential Platform writing committee.
Bill Gray's political accomplishments have been well documented, but it is significant that he saw personal achievements mainly as a means to enable him to help others. In a 1991 interview with the New York Times, Gray stated that
``My concept of power is different from other people's. I come from a background of ministry and education in which power is the ability to impact on people's lives.''
Although he was fiercely partisan, Gray was able to work with enough Republicans to secure passage of a budget prepared by his committee; one which contained funding for numerous social and educational programs.
Gray's finest moment in Congress came when he joined with former Representatives Steve Solarz (D-NY) and Howard Wolpe
(D-MI) to draft a bill imposing sanctions on the apartheid regime in South Africa. Gray was able to use an even tougher sanctions bill introduced by Representative Ron Dellums (D-CA) as leverage in negotiations with Senate conferees, which resulted in both chambers accepting the Gray-Solarz-Wolpe bill.
President Ronald Reagan vetoed this bill and gave a nationally televised address to explain his actions. Speaker Tip O'Neill (D-MA) then asked Gray to deliver the nationally televised response to the President's veto message. Congress subsequently overrode the veto, marking the first time that any of Reagan's foreign policy vetoes had not been sustained.
The impact of this legislation was immediately felt in South Africa, where the pro-apartheid government soon collapsed and Nelson Mandela was freed from prison. When Mandela later spoke to a joint session of Congress, Bill Gray accompanied him to the podium. Mandela subsequently spoke to Gray's congregation at Bright Hope Baptist Church. Appropriately, Gray was part of the official United States Delegation to attend Mandela's inauguration as President of South Africa in 1994.
He was aware that many Jews played significant roles in the Civil Rights movement and thus did all he could to improve Black-Jewish relations. Together with George Ross, in 1985 Gray founded ``Operation Understanding'' an organization designed to bring young Jewish and African Americans together to promote respect, understanding and cooperation while working to eradicate racism, anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination.
At the height of his political career, in the late 1980's and early 90's, there was speculation that Gray would eventually become Speaker of the House. Others encouraged him to run for Governor or Senator from Pennsylvania. There was even talk that he might become the first serious African American Presidential candidate.
Gray surprised everyone when he announced that he would leave Congress--and politics--in 1991, in mid-term, to become the President and CEO of the United Negro College Fund.
He explained that: ``I can do more to help more people, than I can even if I became Speaker.'' Between 1991 and 2004, Gray raised over $2.6 billion in new funds for UNCF. Thus, there are thousands of young people who would never have had the opportunity to go to college if it were not for his efforts and the quality of education offered at historically Black Colleges and Universities has dramatically improved.
President Bill Clinton appointed Gray in 1994 to be Special Advisor to the President on Haiti. Gray was able to help promote stability, reduce the number of potential casualties and restore the democratically elected government.
Gray served on a number of major corporate boards, including Dell, Pfizer, Prudential Financial and Prudential Insurance Company of America, and JPMorgan Chase & Co. John Strangfeld, Prudential's Chairman and CEO stated: ``Bill was a highly respected member of our board and a leader in all aspects of his life--a preacher, a legislator, a businessman and a board director.''
After retiring from UNCF, together with his son Justin, Bill Gray founded a government relations and business advocacy firm, now called Gray Global.
Gray spent the past years seeking to bring about a resolution of the conflict concerning the status of the Western Sahara region of Morocco. He supported a solution initially proposed by the Clinton administration that the Western Sahara should remain under Moroccan sovereignty but that the residents be granted autonomy over their own affairs. Gray was particularly concerned about the fate of tens of thousands of refugees who are still ``warehoused'' in camps on the Algerian side of the border by the Polisario Front. Gray worked to secure freedom for these refugees, currently living under horrible conditions in the Sahara Desert.
It is significant that Bill Gray's most recent foreign policy effort underscores his life-long commitment to assist those in need, especially people who are denied basic human rights and dignity.
Bill Gray was a decent and caring man, who spent his life surrounded by a loving family and a wide range of friends and admirers.
Mr. FATTAH. I yield to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Butterfield).
Mr. BUTTERFIELD. I thank you, Congressman Fattah, for convening this Special Order this evening, and I thank you for doing so much for so many.
Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to my friend and great American, William Herbert Gray, III.
I spoke by email today, Mr. Speaker, with a family friend in Cincinnati, her name is Barbara Bond, whose deceased late husband, LaVelle, was Bill's friend. She informed me that Bill's closest of friends called him Herb, and that Herb always insisted on paying for the meal and telling his friends where to sit at the dinner table.
Mr. Speaker, I first met Bill Gray many years ago. He was a dear friend of a mutual friend, Attorney Ralph Stephens, of Raleigh, North Carolina, who was also a minister and a lawyer. Bill and Ralph's relationship was very deep. When Ralph passed away some years ago, Bill came to Raleigh, consoled the family, and delivered the eulogy.
In fact, when Ralph's older brother, Dr. Claude Stephens, of Fayetteville, passed away, Bill chartered a flight from Washington to Fayetteville and then flew back to Washington. He was that type of human being, compassionate and caring for his friends.
On Monday of last week, June 24, Bill Gray telephoned me to say that he wanted me to meet the former Ambassador to Morocco. I agreed, and we met at noon the following day in the Members' dining room here in the Capitol for a delightful 1-hour meeting.
During the meeting, Bill reminisced about his days here in the House of Representatives and talked about his work as majority whip. He reminded me, Mr. Fattah, that he'd never lost a vote during his tenure. But he went on to talk about how Democrats and Republicans worked together on the big issues of that day and solved problems. And he mused about how that approach to governance would be so valuable today.
Bill also reminded me that when I was first elected in 2004, he and Andrea invited me to their Virginia home to meet CEO Michael Dell of Dell, Incorporated.
Well, Mr. Speaker, as we departed from the lunch last week, Bill gave me a big hug and said something that men generally don't say to other men. He said to me, Butter, I love you, man, and we walked away.
Well, Bill Gray, we love you and will celebrate your life and your work.
To Andrea and the entire Gray family, I extend to you my warmest condolences as you reflect on the life and work of your loved one. May God bless each of you.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
Bill Gray, for myself and my wife, for my parents, for tens of thousands of Philadelphians, was just a wonderful human being who did so much to help so many.
And I think it is appropriate that the Democratic leader has come to the floor to address us on the occasion of recognizing the service of someone whom she served with, and they were great friends. And so I yield to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Pelosi), the Democratic leader.
Ms. PELOSI. I thank the gentleman from Philadelphia for yielding and for giving us this opportunity to sing the praises of a great man, Chairman Bill Gray, Democratic Whip Bill Gray.
Mr. Speaker, I had the privilege just a few weeks ago of receiving a call from Bill Gray. And I said, oh, it was just out of the blue, wanting to know how my family was doing, challenging my husband to tennis, as always, telling him is he ready to get beaten by me, and this or that.
He said, I just want to know how things are. And he asked me how things were going here, just a call of friendship. And it was just so remarkable to me that about 2 weeks later we had the word.
He told me he was going to Wimbledon, he was taking his sons to Wimbledon. He was going to go. He loved tennis.
And then when we got the word, it was just so strange, and I felt that God had really truly blessed me because I had that opportunity to speak with him, just out of the blue and within a matter of weeks before his passing.
I did have the privilege of serving with him. As I look around and see all these much younger Members, maybe they didn't all serve with him, but they knew of his great leadership for our country.
Anybody who did serve with him, or knew of the leadership of Bill Gray, knew that he was, in a word, a giant, a giant of Philadelphia, a giant of the Congress, a giant of our country. He was a leader and a trailblazer, a proud Representative of the people of Philadelphia. He just loved his district, a man who left his mark on the history of his city.
His time in Congress was an extension of his family business, public service, serving the community, acting on the values of his faith, giving back to his neighbors and the less fortunate.
Others have spoken about how he made this choice. This is a man who could have done anything in life. He had the talent. He had the stamina. He had the energy, the values and the rest. He was a success in anything he strove to do, but he chose the path that his family had laid out for him, ministering to the needs of people.
In the House of Representatives, Congressman Gray will forever stand as a first. He was the first African American to serve as chair of the Budget Committee, a very big deal, the first African American to serve as the majority whip in the House.
He sounded the alarm, not only about the injustices of apartheid in South Africa, but about what America and Congress could do to end it.
He broadened the reach of his public service beyond Congress, helping send more young people to college, as president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, and how excited he was about that.
He did everything with gusto, whether it was serving as a Member, as a chairman, as the whip, and then to have his values be the focus of his work at the United Negro College Fund.
To serve alongside Bill Gray, I'm sure all of my colleagues will attest, was to be inspired by his passion and his commitment, by his focus on the future, and by his belief in the common good. It was an honor and privilege to know him as a colleague, a special privilege for any of us who had that privilege to call him friend.
We only hope it is a comfort to his wife, Andrea, whom he adored. I hope it is a comfort to Andrea and to William IV, to Justin, and to Andrew, that so many people mourn their loss, are praying for them at this sad time.
Well, he went doing what he enjoyed, at Wimbledon. Watching Wimbledon all weekend, all I could think of was Bill Gray being there.
So many people loved him. So many people share the grief of the Gray family. All I can say is that, knowing him over all of these years, he lived life to the fullest.
{time} 2015
Though he left us too soon, what he packed into his years of life and service and leadership was something so remarkable. So that's why I thank the gentleman for recognizing Bill Gray and giving us the opportunity to do so on the floor with the admiration and affection that you have brought to this meeting this evening through all of the voices of our colleagues.
I'm sure we'll be saying more and more about Bill Gray. He wasn't into titles. He liked having the titles, but he liked the friendship of being called Bill Gray.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentlelady, and I thank her for her leadership in this House and her own extraordinary career that continues as we go forward.
I yield to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Watt).
Mr. WATT. Thank you, Mr. Fattah, for convening us here and for coordinating this.
I'd like to rise and pay tribute to the memory of Bill Gray also. Unlike our leader, I never had the pleasure of serving with Bill Gray. Maybe people will wonder why so many people have flocked to the floor to pay tribute to him. We put him in the same category that we put Shirley Chisholm, with whom I never served, or George H. White, with whom I never served, or many other people who came before us; because we stand on their shoulders and recognize that, but for the contributions that they made, we would not be here.
And I come because Bill Gray was a friend, even though I never served with him. He regularly checked in with those of us who served just to call and say hello and encourage us to stay committed to the task that we are sent here to undertake. He regularly checked in with me because he knew I also played tennis and loved tennis and that I'd been to Wimbledon before. So I guess the great thing about it is that he died in the middle of making a trip to do something and observe something that he really loved--and with a member of his family.
I want to thank Representative Fattah for convening this Special Order, and I extend my condolences to Bill Gray's family. We'll remember him forever and ever. Amen.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
The Sunday after Bill Gray left Congress, he preached a sermon, where he said that he was chasing his mission. And his mission wasn't money. It wasn't being in Congress. It was serving people. And he was leaving the Congress to go lead this fine scholarship organization, the UNCF. He did an extraordinary thing in terms of convincing people of the likes of Bill Gates to write a billion-dollar check at one sitting. No one had ever gotten a check that large on behalf of young people in our country who seek an education. Bill Gray had the gift of being a Baptist preacher who was always optimistic.
I yield to the gentleman from Minnesota, Keith Ellison.
Mr. ELLISON. I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania.
Mr. Speaker, young people often say, I'm interested in politics; I'm interested in public service. Who might I look at to model myself after?
I can think of very few people who would be better than someone like Mr. William Gray, Congressman Gray, Reverend Gray. He held so many titles.
I did have the pleasure of meeting him. Of course, I never served with him, but I did get to know him, and I got to know him in a strange way. He just called me up at my office. I said, Bill Gray is calling me? I was a brand new Member. I was just happy to be here. But Bill Gray thought, Hey, you're a Member of Congress. I'm welcoming you to this institution, and I want to have a relationship with you.
I sat down with him, got to know him, and he actually spent his time and gave me the honor of his presence on many occasions. I thought to myself, Bill Gray is an excellent role model because:
One, he has a spirit of optimism. He was always, whenever I was around him, happy, smiling, upbeat, and believing it can be done;
Two, he was never too important--though he was very important--to give his time to people. No matter who those folks might be, even a freshman Congressman like I was when he called me;
Three, he's a person who had a certain sense of self-possession. He was sure that a college education for kids was right. And because he was sure that he was right about it, his enthusiasm for the subject kind of infected people around him it. It doesn't surprise me that Bill Gates would write the check, because he's talking to Bill Gray.
And so if you really want to be successful, look and study Bill Gray. None of us are going to be here forever. May we all leave the legacy of a great man like Bill Gray.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
It was said by Ben Hooks on one occasion that we're all passing one by one and we should not get caught with our work undone. So Bill got his work done.
I yield to the gentlelady from the great State of New York, Yvette Clarke, who was born on the best day on the calendar. We share birthdays. But she is much more beautiful and brilliant than I.
Ms. CLARKE. To my colleague, Congressman Chaka Fattah, it was a great day, November 21.
But let me just say this: I want to thank you for your leadership. It is very appropriate that we're here on the House floor, a place where Mr. Gray's power was most profoundly felt, and that you, being his successor in office, would lead us through what, for many of us, is a day of celebration and commemoration of his life.
On behalf of the people of the Ninth Congressional District, I'm here to express our most profound condolences to the family of Congressman Bill Gray and, as I've said, to celebrate his life and the legacy that he's left for all of us.
Trailblazer, man of God, outstanding husband, father, preacher, skilled negotiator, consensus builder, majority whip, and servant leader, these are just a few of the words that describe the Honorable William H. Gray.
As a pioneering Member of Congress, William H. Gray III was an industrious public servant who worked diligently to provide equal rights, education, and service to the people of his district and, indeed, our Nation. He was a trailblazer for so many who have followed in his footsteps in the House of Representatives, including myself, and paved the way for many more to follow.
Congressman Gray represented the Second District of Pennsylvania from 1979 to 1991. He was the first African American to become majority whip of the House of Representatives in 1989, the third-ranking House leadership position. He also served as the first African American to serve as the chair of the Budget Committee of the House of Representatives and was a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation and Foreign Operations.
Congressman Gray, along with many of the CBC at that time, led the effort back in the mid-1980s to end U.S. support of apartheid. When he retired from the House of Representatives, he went on to become president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, where he led the efforts to raise more than $2.3 billion for HBCUs, which was extraordinary.
I'm sure my colleagues have recounted over and over and over all that he has done. I'm just putting an exclamation point because I think it's worth repeating that the people of this Nation need to know what an outstanding servant, Congressman, and preacher Congressman Bill Gray III was. We miss him dearly.
He was passionate about education and believed it was the greatest tool towards a brighter future. I believe my colleague, Congressman Fattah, and he must have melded DNA--or maybe it's a Philly thing. I don't know. But certainly I know that this is the legacy that he has left for Congressman Fattah, for all of us to follow.
Congressman Gray hails from a long lineage of preachers. Before coming to Congress, Congressman Gray served as the pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in north Philadelphia, where he served as pastor for 35 years. He was a real renaissance man who had been able to manage several careers throughout his lifetime. He succeeded his father, William H. Gray, Jr., who preached there for 22 years, and his grandfather, William H. Gray, Sr., who served there for 24 years. While in Congress, he returned to Philadelphia on weekends just to preach. He leaves an amazing legacy that will never be forgotten and that will be a part of our Nation's history for generations to come.
During this time of grief, I hope that his family and all of us will find solace in our memories and comfort will be bestowed upon the family and loved ones at this time of their bereavement. I will continue to keep the family and his parishioners and those who hold him dear in my prayers and hope that the Lord will continue to be with them at this time.
Mr. FATTAH. Let me thank the gentlelady.
I yield to my fraternity brother and colleague from the great Commonwealth of Virginia.
November 21 is a great day.
Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair would remind the Members that the rules do not allow references to occupants of the gallery.
Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I thank my Alpha brother for yielding.
It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of our Alpha Phi Alpha brother, the Honorable William Herbert Gray III, on July 1, 2013. My thoughts and prayers are with Reverend Gray's family during this difficult time.
Reverend Gray was a public servant in the truest sense of the word. He found many ways to effect change in the lives of the citizens of Philadelphia and, later, citizens across the country and the world. After his father stepped down as senior pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church, he succeeded him and served as senior pastor for more than 35 years.
Well-known as a consensus-builder in the Philadelphia community, Reverend Gray leveraged those relationships into an opportunity to represent the Second Congressional District of Pennsylvania and the U.S. House of Representatives. During his tenure, he rose to the influential positions of chairman of the Budget Committee and majority whip of the House of Representatives. He was the first African American ever to assume the position of majority whip. He wielded these positions of power to advance an agenda of social justice for all Americans and social justice for those who suffered under the apartheid in South Africa.
After his departure from Congress, he found opportunities to further advocate for social equality through his service as president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund. During his tenure, he helped raise over $2.3 billion so students could continue their dream of affording and achieving a college education.
He will be missed by his former colleagues in the House of Representatives and the many people who were positively affected by his life's work. He will also be missed by his congregation at Bright Hope Baptist Church. His dedication to his congregation was always apparent, as evidenced by his continued preaching throughout his tenure in Congress and his tenure with the United Negro College Fund.
Reverend Gray was a shining example of what it means to be a public servant, and his strong, influential voice will be sorely missed.
Mr. FATTAH. I thank the gentleman.
{time} 2030
There are many who are honored to serve in this House. There are few who honor the House through their service. Bill Gray honored the House through his service.
But I knew Bill Gray as a preacher from north Philadelphia. He constructed the Philadelphia Mortgage Plan, the Philadelphia Insurance Plan, the guard against red-lining neighborhoods and green-lining neighborhoods in north Philadelphia and northwest Philadelphia. I saw him deal with the challenges of bringing resources for transportation and infrastructure and job training into Philadelphia as a member of the Appropriations Committee--which no one actually normally talks about. They talk about his chairmanship of the Budget Committee, but as an appropriator, he did a great deal to move our country forward.
So as I move to close, I want to thank his family for sharing Bill Gray with the rest of the world. Not just here in the Congress, but all around the world Bill Gray worked to make a difference.
And I want to thank his church family. Because on this Saturday, when he's funeralized, there will be people flying in from all over. But the people who he married and baptized, the people who he consoled on their sick beds, to them, he was their pastor.
For those who served with him in the House, they learned a great deal from Bill Gray's service here, which is that it's not the length or the number of terms, it's what we do when we have the power to make a difference. He was truly an impact player.
As a tennis player, he had a great, aggressive net game. He played aggressively, and he always played to win. I thank the House and I thank my colleagues for taking out this time to recognize his service, his life, his legacy, and his leadership.
I yield back the balance of my time.
Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I would also like to thank my colleague, Mr. Fattah, for leading the CBC's celebration of Congressman William H. Gray, III's life and legacy. Our nation has lost a strong community leader and devoted public servant.
Elected to the House of Representatives in 1978, Congressman Bill Gray proudly served the citizens of Pennsylvania's Second Congressional District for over ten remarkable years. As a Member of Congress, he was a tireless advocate for the people of Philadelphia and a pioneer for a new generation of African-
American elected officials.
He was a trailblazer who fought to protect the most vulnerable individuals in his community, in our country, and around the world.
During his tenure in Congress, Congressman Gray later became Chairman of the Democratic Caucus and Majority Whip for the party. With these Leadership positions, he became the highest-ranking African American ever to serve in Congress. His congressional record and service continues to inspire us all. During the four years he served as Chair of the House Budget Committee, Congressman Gray was the chief point man in budget negotiations between the Democratic Congress and the Reagan Administration. He was no stranger to reaching across the aisle to build consensus and work in a bipartisan manner.
He wielded his Budget Committee gavel for the good of the international community pressing for more economic aid for Africa and leading the critique of South African apartheid.
As a staunch supporter of education, he was a key advocate for strengthening and improving our nation's schools.
Upon his retirement from Congress, Representative Gray became president and chief executive officer of the United Negro College Fund from 1991 to 2004, where he led the Fund to new fund-raising records while cutting costs and expanding programs and services.
Congressman Gray was truly transformative for our communities and especially for our young people.
In 1994, President Clinton appointed Congressman Gray as a special advisor to Haiti and in that role he assisted President Clinton in developing and carrying out policy to restore democracy to Haiti. Due to his service, in 1995, the Congressman received the Medal of Honor from the Haitian government.
Congressman Gray's lifelong commitment to his community, to public service, and to his family was truly admirable and inspirational. To his wife, Andrea, his three sons and his many grandchildren, know that you are in our hearts and our prayers. And, I say to you, celebrate Bill's life, because he lived a life that was full of honor and integrity. Not only did he inspire each one of us with his service, he inspired the Nation.
I am truly privileged to be able to stand here and honor Congressman Gray.
Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, Bill Gray lived the very definition of a fulfilled life--full of family, friends, history making as a public man and above all, as a public servant. The first African American House Majority Whip, third in rank in the House, first African American chair of the House Budget Committee, Member of the House from Pennsylvania, author of the 1985 and 1986 South Africa sanction bills, a storied leader who broke fundraising records as the Chief Executive Officer of the United Negro College Fund, and pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church for 25 years. At his premature death, Bill was co-chairman of his own consulting firm, GrayLoeffler and Corp.
However, the highlights of Bill's life of public service did not fully define the man. Bill Gray left the Congress before I was elected and many were convinced that he would become the first African American Speaker of the House, had he chosen to remain in Congress. However, you did not have to be a member of Congress to get to know Bill Gray, so wide- ranging were his contributions, activities and his friendships.
Bill was gifted with an agile mind, a magnetic personality, and a generous spirit. The shock, regret, and profound sadness Bill's loss leaves are mitigated only by the certain knowledge of a life fully, richly, and generously lived.
Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, today we honor someone who truly embodied what it means to be a ``public servant,'' former Congressman Bill Gray. Whether it was during his time as a professor, as a Member of Congress, or as President of the United Negro College Fund, Congressman Gray spent his entire life selflessly serving others.
He exemplified the characteristics of a true leader and was a model for all of us here in this chamber. More than anything, Congressman Gray loved Philadelphia, he loved the people he served, and every day he dedicated himself to making the lives of those less fortunate just a little bit better.
Congressman Gray's affinity for education began long before he became President of the United Negro College Fund, when he was teaching in my home State of New Jersey. As a professor of history and religion at St. Peter's College, Jersey City State College, and Montclair State College, he helped change the lives of hundreds of young men and women throughout my district.
This passion for education continued throughout his life as Congressman Gray became a leading advocate in changing the American educational system.
To Congressman Gray, adversity was a welcome challenge. He broke down racial barriers as the first African-American Majority Whip Leader and Chairman of the House Budget Committee. He also led the charge to help end apartheid.
These remarkable achievements paved the way for me and other African American leaders to follow.
Despite his incredible accomplishments in Congress, Congressman Gray never stopped serving and always believed he could do more.
Returning to his true passion--education--Congressman Gray became President of the United Negro College Fund. There, he remarkably helped raise more than half of UNFC's $1.6 billion in funds to help open the door for thousands of African-American students who merely had a dream and the drive to go to college. With Congressman Gray's help, those dreams have been turned into reality.
I am incredibly grateful for Congressman Gray's tireless years of civil service and for being a model of true leadership. My condolences and prayers go out to his family and the people of Philadelphia during this difficult time. Congressman Gray will certainly be missed, but has left a mark on this Nation.
Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable man, a former Committee Chair, Majority Whip of this distinguished body and an outstanding American, Congressman Bill Gray.
In 1972, Congressman Gray succeeded his father to serve as the Senior Pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia, a position he held until 2007. It was through the church and his family where he first learned the benevolence of kindness and value of public service.
Congressman Gray, first elected to Congress from Pennsylvania's 22nd District in 1979, worked tirelessly to promote the civil rights of all people. His dedication to this cause extended further than the boundaries of our country and touched countless lives. In Congress, Congressman Gray was instrumental in passing legislation aimed at ending apartheid practices in South Africa.
Throughout his tenure in Congress, Congressman Gray achieved many firsts. Most notably, he rose to become Chairman of the Budget Committee, a first by an African American. He also served as Majority Whip, the top three job in the House leadership and the highest position occupied by an African American elected official up to that point.
Congressman Gray was a strong advocate for educational policies, and later led the United Negro College Fund, which supports scholarship programs for African American students and more than three dozen private historically black colleges. In 1999, Congressman Gray helped to secure a $1 billion pledge from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for scholarships to be administered by the fund. This is believed to be the largest single act of philanthropy in the history of American higher education.
I had many opportunities to personally speak with Congressman Gray.
Congressman Gray was an advocate of strong family values, as he displayed in his marriage with his wife, Andrea, and three sons, William IV, Justin and Andrew.
Mr. Speaker, it is incumbent upon this body to acknowledge Congressman Gray's achievements and life of public service which have improved our Nation.
On behalf of the people of the 30th Congressional District of Texas and the United States Congress, I extend my heartfelt sympathy and celebrate his life of service.
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