Senate Resolution No. 2842

BY: Senator KENNEDY

MOURNING the tragic and untimely death of Ruth E.
Whitfield, devoted wife, mother, grandmother and
great-grandmother, and distinguished member of her
community

WHEREAS, There are certain outstanding members of our community who,
through their selfless commitment and dedication, have served to better
the quality of life in our community and have had a measurable positive
impact on the lives of its residents; Ruth E. Whitfield was one such
individual; and

WHEREAS, It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that this
Legislative Body records the passing of Ruth E. Whitfield, noting the
significance of her purposeful life and accomplishments; and

WHEREAS, Ruth E. Whitfield of Buffalo, New York, died on Saturday,
May 14, 2022, in the devastating act of violence which took place at the
Tops Friendly Market on historic Jefferson Avenue; she was 86 years old;
and

WHEREAS, A woman of indomitable faith and dedication, Ruth E.
Whitfield was a longtime parishioner at Durham Memorial A.M.E. Zion
Church where she sang in the choir; and

WHEREAS, While she was passionate about many things, above all her
greatest passion was spending time with her beloved family; and

WHEREAS, Ruth E. Whitfield is survived by her soulmate of 68 years,
Garnell W. Whitfield, Sr.; her children, Robin Harris (Philip), Garnell
Whitfield, Jr. (Cassietta), Angela Crawley (Melvin) and Raymond A.
Whitfield; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and five
great-great-grandchildren; seven siblings; and a host of cousins, nieces
and nephews; and

WHEREAS, Ruth E. Whitfield's infinite selflessness and benevolence
will shine on through her family's vivid and happy memories; her insight
and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love, light and hope to
the countless lives she touched; and

WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of
compassion, Ruth E. Whitfield leaves behind a legacy which will long
endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all
who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing woman; she
will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this
Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the tragic and untimely death of Ruth E. Whitfield, and to express
its deepest condolences to her family; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Ruth E. Whitfield.