House Resolution 61

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MRS. ELMA MAXINE HOWARD SMITH, AND EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HER PASSING.

WHEREAS, it is written in Ecclesiastes 3:1 that "To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the Heaven," and as such, on January 27, 2023, the immaculate author and finisher of our soul's destiny summoned the mortal presence of dearly beloved, Mrs. Elma Maxine Howard Smith, to eternal rest, rendering great sorrow and loss to her family, friends and community; and

WHEREAS, though she has traversed the river of life to reunite with those who answered God's summons to life eternal and now beckon her arrival to the celestial shores of Heaven's grandeur, the legacy of Mrs. Smith's indelible imprint upon our lives will continue to refresh the hearts and fond memories of her relatives, loved ones and dear friends; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Smith will forever be loved, cherished and missed by all who knew her, and since it is written in 2 Corinthians 5:8, that to be "absent from the body is to be present with the Lord," her family and friends can find peace and comfort during this difficult time; and

WHEREAS, a genuine and lovely lady of exceptional character, Mrs. Smith's outstanding legacy will continue for generations to come, and precious memories of time spent with her will hopefully continue to provide warmth, peace and comfort to her loved ones; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and honor the lives of exceptional individuals, especially those such as Mrs. Smith, a wonderful lady whose life's light illuminated the path of hope for all she encountered along this earthly sojourn:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby mourn the loss and honor the life and legacy of Mrs. Elma Maxine Howard Smith, and express deepest sympathy to her family and friends upon her passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mrs. Elma Maxine Howard Smith, and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.