House Resolution 112

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LEE COUNTY EDUCATOR AND ADMINISTRATOR HARRY L. GRAYSON, SR., AND EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HIS PASSING.

WHEREAS, Harry Lewis Grayson, Sr., a dedicated educator and administrator who contributed more than 42 years to the educational systems of Tupelo and Lee County, departed this earthly life on Saturday, February 18, 2006, to enter into eternal rest, causing great sorrow and loss to his family and friends; and

WHEREAS, a graduate of the former Eason High School in Corinth, Mr. Grayson attended Lane College in Jackson, Tennessee, before earning his B.A. degree from Rust College and subsequently his M.A. degree in administration from Jackson State University; and

WHEREAS, a man with a devout presence, who exuded respect on every level, he exemplified himself as a proven leader time and time again as evidenced by his 42-year career in education, from humble beginnings as teacher and coach to his more practical role as a principal in which he displayed his interpersonal skill and leadership as an administrator; and

WHEREAS, having worked in a teacher or administrative capacity at Lowe's High School, Poplar High School, Green Street Elementary School and George Washington Carver High School, Mr. Grayson also lent his educational knowledge to his church, Spring Hill M.B. Church, where in addition to being the oldest deacon, he was also a Sunday School teacher, choir member and trustee; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Grayson had several affiliations to his credit, including: the Young Democratic Club of Mississippi, the NAACP, the Tupelo Civic Improvement Club, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Colored Benevolent Society, State and National Funeral Directors and Mortician Associations, Community Development Foundation and Exalted Ruler of the Henry Hampton Elks Lodge No. 782; and

WHEREAS, for his hard work in the Tupelo community, Mr. Grayson was honored during Black History Month with the Trailblazer Award from the Temple of Compassion and Deliverance Church; and

WHEREAS, though he has traversed the chilly waters of Jordan, to now stand on the golden shores of Heaven to a life anew, his legacy and memory will continue to be cherished by his loving survivors: wife of 54 years, Valeria Porter Grayson; sons, Harry, Roy, Rodney and Charles; daughters, Mattie, Sarita and Jacque; and a host of other relatives and friends; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to commend the life of such a diligent individual committed to the cause of education and family as Mr. Grayson:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend the life and legacy of Mr. Harry Lewis Grayson, Sr., and express deepest sympathy to his family and friends upon his passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mr. Grayson and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.