TRIBUTE TO GARLAND SMITH, JR.
WHEREAS, God in His Infinite Wisdom, called Garland Smith Jr, a most respected citizen, he was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to the union of Garland Smith, Sr., and Isabel Bradley-Smith on April 4, 1935. Both parents preceded him in death at a very early age. ; and
WHERERAS, This august body has been informed of the beloved Garland Smith Jr, passing by the Honorable Carrie M. Austin, Alderman ofthe 34th Ward; and
WHEREAS, Garland, attended Merrill High School in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He relocated to Chicago and lived with his Uncle Carpers Bradley for most of his growing years. He joined the United Stated Army in 1958 and was called back to duty during the Cuban Missile Crisis and was later honorably discharged; and
WHEREAS, Garland met the love of his life Charlene Smith in Chicago, IL and they were joined in holy matrimony on September 25, 1960. They shared sixty-two wonderful years together loving and raising three children: Daryl, Sharon, and Christopher. Garland's life revolved around his family, and it was evident that being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather bought him the greatest joy; and
WHEREAS, During his early of life, Garland obtained a license as a Barber/Cosmetologist where he serviced many family members and friends in the comfort of his home, inviting them to chat and have coffee and donuts after a haircut. He worked at Western Electric for 30 years while also earning his diploma in Electric and Refrigeration from Coyne Institute. He later became a Property Assessor for Cook County for twenty years, when he decided to retire from the workforce and enjoy life's next chapter of life-retirement.; and
WHEREAS, He was well known in the family as "Baby Jr." by his brothers and sister, and in the neighborhood as Smitty." He loved fishing, grilling, playing cards, telling storied and his infamous humorous jokes, he had a story for everything and was never afraid to tell it more than once, He shared great words of wisdom and advice with all those fortunate enough to know him and be cared for b him; and
WHEREAS, For over 30 years he was the proud Precinct Captain for Ward 34, encouraging neighbors to come out and vote and helping to improve and enhance the Maple Park community. He was thoughtful and generous, always willing to help and lend a hand to anyone in need; and
WHEREAS, Garland will live in the hearts of everyone he encountered and loved. He received his Heavenly Father's call on Monday morning, the 26th day of September 2022;' and
WHEREAS, He leaves to cherish his loving memories, his devoted and loving wife, Charlene, son, Daryl (Rielanda), daughter, Sharon (DeCarlo), son Christopher (Kimberly): twelve grandchildren: Ryan McGee (Tiffany). Ross Hall (Kiara), Justin Hall, Levandis Johnson, Alexis Smith, Christyle Smith, Giovanni Sinnott, Joseph Sinnott, Kierra Eaton, Bryana Smith, Brooklyn Rimes and Brandi Rimes: twelve great-grandchildren brother, Lewis Walker, Jr. (preceded him in death) sister Willie B. Bush-Bankston (preceded him in death): Gladys Smith, Pine Bluff, Arkansas: Norma Carter, San Tan Valley, AZ: and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. A special heartfelt thank you to those that helped take care of Garland: his niece Rheanita Bush, his granddaughter Bryana Smith & his caregiver Rawdah Mali: now therefore
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and members of the City Council of the City of Chicago, at the next regular council meeting on the 26th day of October, 2022, will acknowledge their heartfelt condolences to the family, loved ones and friends of Garland Smith Jr; and
Carrie M. Austin 34th Ward
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be prepared and presented to the family of Garland Smith Jr. as a sign of our honor and respect.