MEMORIAL RESOLUTION FOR IDA MAE CRAIG HARRIS
WHEREAS, It is with great sadness that the members of this Chamber learned of the death of Ida Mae Craig Harris on February 16, 2018; and
WHEREAS, The Chicago City Council has been informed of her passing by the Honorable Margaret Laurino, Alderman of the 39th Ward; and
WHEREAS, born in Marion, Alabama, Ida Mae was the beloved daughter of (the late) Malinda and (the late) Pack Craig, Sr. Although she was the second of nine children, Ida Mae instinctively took on the role of caretaker for her younger siblings. She accepted Christ at an early age and for more than 64 years has been a faithful member ofthe Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. Ida Mae served as a board member, enjoyed singing with the choir and participated as a reader of the announcements; and
WHEREAS, Shortly after graduating from Lincoln High School in Marion, Ida Mae relocated to Chicago to pursue her dreams of attending College where she enrolled at Roosevelt University. Soon after, she met and married, (the late) Tommie Sr. and to this union were blessed with five children; and
WHEREAS, A dedicated wife and mother, Ida Mae's family was her priority, ensuring a safe, healthy environment and creating a comfortable home filled with love. Family fellowship was important, education was essential. Ida Mae stressed the importance of higher education to her children and every generation thereafter; and
WHEREAS, Ida Mae later fulfilled her dream and graduated from East West University. Her career span began at the YMCA, accepting a position with the City of Chicago and eventually retiring her profession as Assistant to the Director of Human Resources with the Circuit Court of Cook County and Social Services where she spent over 25 years; and
WHEREAS, Ida Mae delighted in having family and friends to her home to share a meal. Her cooking was superb but her pound cakes and chicken salad were a standard delight for all who visited. She was known for her fashion style, particularly taking pride in her elegant hats. Her many interest included her crystal collection, decorating her house and planting unique flowers in her garden; and
WHEREAS, Ida Mae's commitment to build stronger communities through common unity was exemplified through her discernment, patience and perseverance. She was a member of the Women's Auxiliary and served as Vice President with the Chicago Area Chapter Lincolnites. An active member ofthe 8th Ward Regular Democratic Organization, Ida did not hesitate to knock on doors or make phone calls to remind residents of their civic duty and right to vote; and
WHEREAS, Ida Mae leaves to cherish her memory; her children, Darry (Lorraine), Larry (Sherry), Roy, Tommie Jr. (Sultry), Linda-Che'rie, and Michelle Ann (John); her grandchildren, Arnice, Prince, Kristen, Jennifer, Loren, Corey, Megan, Danaya, Darry JR., Larry jr. Micheal and Adarius; four great-grandchildren; her siblings, Bertha (George), Dorothy (Terry), Pack (Jarnell), Donald (Betty); goddaughter, nieces, nephews and a host of extended relatives and treasured friend who had the pleasure of knowing her; and
WHEREAS, Known for her kind heart, Ida Mae is remembered for her beautiful sense of humor, welcoming nature and no-nonsense personality. She touched the lives of all who knew her through her unconditional love, kindness and caring spirit. She will be deeply missed, but the memory of her character will live on in those who knew and loved her; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and Members of the City Council ofthe City of Chicago, assembled this eighteenth day of April, 2018, do hereby extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Ida Mae Craig Harris; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That suitable copies of this resolution are presented to the family of Ida Mae Craig Harris as a sign of our honor, gratitude, and respect.