TRIBUTE TO THE LATE ESSIE STEPHENSON
WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called Essie Stephenson, most beloved citizen and friend to her everlasting reward; and
WHEREAS, In 1970, Essie joined the Chicago Police Department as a crossing guard, demonstrating outstanding citizenship and unsurpassed dedication in promoting public safety and welfare of children in her charge; and
WHEREAS, In 1971, Essie Stephenson added to her assignments the direction of traffic for summer school children, the teaching and nurturing of summer camp students in arts and crafts programs for the Chicago Park District and volunteered her time and energies on several other projects; and
WHEREAS, In addition to raising two children, David and Debee, and the love of her life her grandson Prince Roy, Essie Stephenson helped to nurture the minds and hearts of many hundreds of children through her years of service. After first making sure her own children were safe and sound, she would leave her home on the city's far South Side at 4:00 a.m. to travel to her post at Ashland and Barry Avenues on the North Side. She has stood for safety though rain, sleet, snow and in the dark ofthe winter months, often not returning to her home until well after 4:00pm; and
WHEREAS, Many children regarded Essie Stephenson as family and included her elsewhere in their lives. She was asked to accompany children on field trips, or to attend their graduation exercises. With close to 50 years, she found herself "crossing" children who were the sons and daughters of the children she "crossed" in a previous decade; and
WHEREAS, Essie Stephenson's winning smile and loving personality made a difference in the lives of many children. She learned which child needed an extra touch, a little extra encouragement, some help with clothing or even a hug; and
WHEREAS, The world can be a dangerous place for a child attempting to cross a big city street. Mother Stephenson shepherded three generations of pint-sized pedestrians. Her hard work and dedication exemplified the highest standards of public service; and
WHEREAS, Essie touched the lives of all who knew her through the depth of her character, generosity and welcoming spirit. She will be deeply missed but the remembrance of her compassion will live on in those who knew and loved her; now, therefore,
Be It Resolved, That we, the Mayor and members of the Chicago City Council of the City of Chicago, assembled here this twenty first day of January, 2015 A.D., do hereby express our sorrow on the death of Essie Stephenson an outstanding citizen , and extend to her family and friends our deepest sympathy; and
CARRIE M. AUSTIN Alderman, 34th Ward
Be It Further Resolved, That a suitable copy of this resolution be prepared and presented to the family of Essie Stephenson.
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