MEMORIAL RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, God in His Infinite Wisdom has called Denise Marlaye Johnston "Niecy", most beloved citizen to her eternal reward, September 22,2014; and
WHEREAS, This august body has been informed of her passing by the Honorable Carrie M. Austin, Alderman of the 34th Ward; and
WHEREAS, Denise was born on November 19, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois to the union of the late John and Annie Evans, the sixth of ten children; and
WHEREAS, Denise attended Hirsch Metropolitan High School where she excelled academically. She was an active member of the Pep Squad and a number of other social organizations until she graduated in 1974; and
WHEREAS, Immediately following high school, Denise met Robert F. Johnston Sr. and they were united in holy matrimony on August 12, 1978. Three loving children were born to this union, Noell ONikki), Robert Jr. (Bobby) and Danielle. She later met her life partner Russell Richardson. They enjoyed spending time and traveling together. He was the love of her life. They spent many wonderful years with each other; and
WHEREAS, Denise dedicated 35 years of her life working as a School Clerk for Chicago Public Schools. She was valued and appreciated by co-workers, students and families. She took pride in making a difference in the lives of children and their families. Denise recently retired from her position at Chicago Public Schools in December of 2013; and
WHEREAS, Denise "Niecy" had a passion for family and devoted the majority of her time to being an amazing mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her past time activity was cooking and she kept a smile on many faces as she perfected her recipes; and
WHEREAS, Denise joined Union Tabernacle Missionary Baptist church in early 2014 where she felt right at home with many of her childhood friends from the Morgan Park area. While there, she was nominated mother of the year; and
WHEREAS, Her birth into eternity leaves joyous memories in the hearts of her three children, Noell (Ronald), Robert Jr. (Lemanada), Danielle (Corey), partner Russ, four grandsons, Jaiken, Karon, Jontay, Jalauni, two brothers, John and Cleveland, six sisters, Elayne, Marilyn, Portia, Deirdre, Monique, Pamela, a plethora of nieces and nephews, a host of extended relatives and friends; and
WHEREAS, A cherished friend and supportive family member to all, Denise will be deeply missed but the remembrance of her character, skill and compassion 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 of the City of Chicago, gathered here this eighth day of October, 2014 A.D., do hereby commemorate Denise Marlaye Johnston "Niecy", for her many lifetime contributions and do hereby extend to her family and many friends our sincere condolences.
Be It Further Resolved, that a suitable copy of this resolution be prepared and presented to the family ofDenise Marlaye Johnston "Niecy".
CARRIE M. AUSTIN Alderman, 34th Ward
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