LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Rebecca Williams, of Queens, New York,
upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition on February
22, 2010

WHEREAS, Senior citizens bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to
the increasingly active roles they play in today's society; their past
contributions and future participation are a vital part of, and valuable
asset to, the fabric of community life and activity; and
WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to proudly honor
Rebecca Williams upon the occasion of her designation for special recog-
nition, and to wish her a very Happy 96th Birthday; and
WHEREAS, Born on February 22, 1914, on South Carolina's coastal
region, Edisto Island, Rebecca Williams moved to New York during World
War II for better employment opportunities; and
WHEREAS, Eventually, Queens became her borough of choice; in 1964, she
purchased a home in Jamaica, and knew that once you become a homeowner,
you also own a piece of the American dream; and
WHEREAS, This exceptional nonagenarian, with her zest for life, has
inspired and enhanced the lives of her family and friends; she was
employed as a domestic as well as in a linen factory; she strongly
believed that working hard and saving her money was a secure path to
succeeding; and
WHEREAS, Rebecca Williams also understood the great benefits to exer-
cising; instead of taking the bus, she would walk to Jamaica Avenue from
her home on Linden Boulevard, and Van Wyck Expressway; and
WHEREAS, Believing in the value of receiving a good education, Rebecca
Williams instilled in her children the importance of attending college;
subsequently, her generous gift to each of her grand- and great-grand-
children was paying for their first semester of school; furthermore, she
inspired her children to work hard, love sincerely and always look out
for one another; and
WHEREAS, A woman of great faith and divine spirituality, Rebecca
Williams has experienced the incredible joys and sorrows characteristic
of and reserved for those with the stamina and courage to savor a full
life; and
WHEREAS, This beloved woman has enriched the lives of those around her
through her joyous and sincere love for others and through the quiescent
charm and wisdom which comes only from a fullness of years; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to publicly recog-
nize those who have reached such a remarkable age and who have witnessed
and celebrated the innovations, cultural developments and awesome
achievements of this country during the last 96 years, while themselves
contributing to the growth and excellence of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Rebecca Williams, of Queens, New York, upon the occasion of her
designation for special recognition on February 22, 2010; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Rebecca Williams.