Memorial Resolution for Luke Smith
WHEREAS, It is with great sadness that the members of this chamber learned of the unfortunate departure of Luke Smith, also known as "Big Luke" and "Godfather," on February 19, 2018; and
WHEREAS, The members of the City Council of the City of Chicago have been informed of Luke's passing by the Honorable Toni Foulkes, Alderman of the 16th Ward; and
WHEREAS, Luke was born on November 16, 1927, in Cameta, Mississippi, to the loving union of Nettie and Will Smith. He was the youngest of fifteen siblings; and
WHEREAS, Although Luke obtained only a third grade education, he succeeded in every endeavor he took on; and
WHEREAS, Luke worked for Inland Steel for forty years, retiring in 1986. He was known for his diligence to his customers and dedication to plumbing and heating maintenance; and
WHEREAS, As an avid Chicago Cubs fan, Luke was elated to see the team win the World Series in 2016. He also loved to watch western films; and
WHEREAS, Luke was a man of dedicated faith. He joined the Mission of Faith Church in 1986, where he served on the senior citizen committee for years. He was known to be a very faithful member; and
WHEREAS, Luke leaves for his legacy: children, Harrison Smith (Beverly) of Chicago, Illinois and Diane Smith-Hamer (Wilmon) of South Holland, Illinois; grandchildren, James, Darryl, Lawanda, Nicole, Luvenia, Ebonie and Lenaa; fifteen great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, and beloved friends; and
WHEREAS, His beloved family and friends will remember his kind heart and passionate spirit; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and members of the City Council of the City of Chicago, gathered here in assembly this twenty-eighth day of March, 2018, do hereby express our most heartfelt condolences to the family of Luke Smith.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that suitable copies of this Resolution be prepared and presented to Luke Smith's family as a sign of our honor, gratitude and respect.