[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 37 (Tuesday, February 25, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H773]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               MOURNING THE LOSS OF JOHN REGINALD MURPHY

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Georgia (Mr. Carter) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of 
John Reginald ``Reg'' Murphy, who unfortunately passed away last 
November.
  Mr. Murphy was a true Renaissance man who lived an extraordinary life 
guided by curiosity, integrity, engagement, and helping those in need.
  Mr. Murphy was raised in Gainesville and attended Mercer University, 
where he began his journalism career. Throughout his career, Mr. Murphy 
experienced success working in a variety of esteemed publications, 
including The Macon Telegraph and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. 
Shortly after, he was chosen as a Nieman fellow at Harvard University 
in 1959.
  Mr. Murphy went on to serve as the editor and publisher of the San 
Francisco Examiner, and then he became the publisher and CEO of The 
Baltimore Sun.
  Throughout his life and career, Mr. Murphy stayed true to his morals 
and strong ethical compass.
  Mr. Murphy is survived by his wife, Diana; daughters, Karen and 
Susan; two grandsons; a sister; and three nieces and nephews.
  Mr. Murphy will always be remembered as a humble, approachable, 
gentle, and kind man.


                      Recognizing Marlon Lawrence

  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marlon 
Lawrence, a custodian at Mary Lee Clark Elementary School in Camden 
County for being named the South Region winner in the Georgia 
Leadership Institute for School Improvement Hidden Heroes Campaign.
  This recognition celebrates unsung leaders in education whose 
dedication makes a profound impact on their schools and their 
communities.
  Marlon's hard work and commitment to maintaining a clean, welcoming, 
and inclusive environment have helped create a space where students and 
staff can thrive.
  This achievement reflects the collective teamwork at Mary Lee Clark 
Elementary where everyone works together to ensure student success.
  Principal Rika Dow has praised Marlon for his unwavering dedication 
and innovative approach, making him a model for others to follow.
  On behalf of the community and as his Congressman, I commend Marlon 
Lawrence for his exceptional contributions, and I thank him for the 
example he sets.
  Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Marlon on this well-deserved recognition.


                Honoring the Life of Ms. Elizabeth Pryor

  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
Ms. Elizabeth Katherine Pryor, a civil rights activist, educator, and 
pillar in the Savannah community, who passed away last month.
  Ms. Pryor was an activist, joining the civil rights movement at a 
young age where she proudly participated in organized sit-ins, marches, 
and peaceful protests in the city of Savannah.
  After graduating from Savannah State College and Georgia Southern 
University, Ms. Pryor served as an educator in the Savannah-Chatham 
County Public School District for more than four decades.
  As a lifelong member of the NAACP, Ms. Pryor also was a strong 
proponent of voting rights. She was also among the activists who were 
instrumental in the renaming of West Broad Street to Martin Luther 
King, Jr. Boulevard.
  Ms. Pryor served on the Board of Directors of the Ralph Mark Gilbert 
Civil Rights Museum and was the former grand marshal for the annual 
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade.
  Ms. Pryor is survived by her two daughters and many other beloved 
relatives and friends. Ms. Pryor will always be remembered for her 
dedication to advocating for justice, change, and equality.


              Honoring the Life of Joseph Rylon Wills, Jr.

  Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of 
Mr. Joseph Rylon Wills, Jr., a man of faith, service, and dedication.
  Born in 1957 in Plant City, Florida, Joe was raised by his loving 
parents, Rylon and Gail. He was active in church and sports, 
demonstrating a commitment to faith and teamwork from a young age.
  In 1982, he married Stacy, his lifelong partner, and together they 
built a beautiful life, raising three wonderful sons, Patrick, Timothy, 
and David.
  Joe earned a business degree from Augusta University and had a 
distinguished career in hospitality and real estate. He worked at 
Augusta National Golf Club, Sea Island Company, and Brunswick Country 
Club. Joe later became a top producing realtor, specializing in luxury 
properties.
  A devoted church leader, Joe served as an elder and deacon, 
supporting organizations like Manna House of Brunswick and contributing 
to community events. He was known for his generosity, kindness, and 
willingness to help others, always offering a listening ear and 
thoughtful advice.
  Joe found joy in family, good friends, music, cycling, and long walks 
on the beach with his dogs. His legacy of service, faith, and love for 
his community will continue to inspire all those who knew him.

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