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Edwards Statement on the Passing of Reverend, Former Congressman William H. Gray, III


07/03/13

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 2, 2013

 

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (MD-4) released the below statement regarding the passing of Reverend and former Congressman William H. Gray, III.

 

“I join the city of Philadelphia, the Congress, and our country as we mourn the passing of Reverend and former Congressman William H. Gray, III.  He was a leader and a pioneer, who overcame racial barriers during his many years in Congress.  He became the first African American to serve as Chair of the Budget Committee and first to achieve the leadership role of Majority Whip.  Later, as President and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, he helped provide numerous young people with the greatest gift to help them succeed – an education.

 

“My thoughts and prayers are with his wife Andrea, their three children, and his family.  He will be remembered for his unyielding dedication to improving the lives of others, something we all can aspire to as we pay tribute to the life of a great man.”

 

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