MEMORIAL-GILBERT SIDNEY PERRY
The resolution honors Perry's personal life, including his marriage, family, and his dedication to keeping family ties strong through reunions held every two years. It underscores the importance of community and family connections, which are vital in shaping individual identities and legacies. By recognizing a notable figure from the local community, the resolution strengthens the ties between individuals and their governmental representatives in Illinois.
Senate Resolution 1293 serves as a memorial to Gilbert Sidney 'G.P.' Perry, who passed away on November 9, 2024. The resolution reflects the sadness felt by the members of the Illinois Senate regarding his death and acknowledges the contributions he made during his lifetime. Perry was born in Arkansas, later moved to East St. Louis, and served in the U.S. Army where he was part of several Black Regiments during World War II. This highlights his role as a veteran and a member of a significant demographic within the military history of the United States.
While the Senate resolution is primarily an act of remembrance and expresses condolences, it touches on broader topics of how communities remember and honor their members. The resolution does not face contention as it serves as a unifying gesture of respect for a life lived, but it does underscore the significant roles individuals play in their communities—even after they are gone.