HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARGARET GORE CASON

On 2026-09-16, Representative Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-3) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARGARET GORE CASON" in the House.

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARGARET GORE CASON

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 146 (Wednesday, September 16, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 146 (Wednesday, September 16, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E937] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARGARET GORE CASON ______ HON. SARAH ELFRETH of maryland in the house of representatives Wednesday, September 16, 2026 Ms. ELFRETH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Margaret Gore Cason, who passed away peacefully at the age of 95. Margaret Cason was a pioneering mathematician, public servant, mentor, and beloved mother, aunt, and grandmother. Born on November 10, 1930, in Pax, West Virginia, Margaret was raised in a close-knit community. She attended segregated local schools in the Pax and Beckley area and distinguished herself academically from an early age. Margaret went on to attend West Virginia State College (now West Virginia State University), graduating in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science degree. During her college years, she became a proud member of the Nu Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. as one of a remarkable group of young women. Several of her mathematician Sorors from that time period would later gain national recognition in the story depicted in the film Hidden Figures. Following graduation, Margaret married Everett W. Crawford and moved to Havre de Grace, Maryland to begin her professional career working for the United States Army at Aberdeen Proving Ground. Holding the job title of ``Computer'' before the advent of modern computing technology, she performed advanced mathematical and military ballistic research calculations at APG's Ballistics Research Laboratory (BRL) in support of the Nations' defense efforts. Her work reflected both her exceptional analytical abilities and her commitment to public service. Margaret remarried and relocated to Birmingham, Alabama with Dr. William P. Cason, where she dedicated herself to helping others. In 1987, she became the State Director of Women in Community Service (WICS) for Alabama. In that role, she devoted her life to assisting young women in overcoming adversity, finding new opportunities, and building brighter futures. In her final years, Margaret made her home in Ellicott City, Maryland, where she was a cherished member of the community and matriarch to her extended family. Margaret will be remembered by all who knew her for her intelligence, grace, strength of character, and genuine concern for others. Margaret's life spanned nearly a century of extraordinary change, and throughout it she remained a mentor, and a source of inspiration. From the coalfields of West Virginia to the laboratories of Aberdeen Proving Ground and the communities she served in Alabama, she left an enduring legacy of achievement, service, and love. On behalf of the United States Congress, I extend my deepest condolences to the Casons and her entire extended family and join them in celebrating the life of an extraordinary woman. ____________________