Floor SpeechNeutral2026-02-12

HONORING MS. PEGGY SIMPSON

Context

On 2026-02-12, Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS-2) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MS. PEGGY SIMPSON" in the House.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E135-E136] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MS. PEGGY SIMPSON ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Thursday, February 12, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Peggy Simpson, an extraordinary woman whose life of service exemplifies the spirit of compassion, generosity, and community uplift that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., so powerfully championed. In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Ms. Simpson, alongside a small group of dedicated volunteers, served lunch to nearly 100 individuals at the River City Rescue Mission in Vicksburg, Mississippi. This act was not merely a meal--it was a living tribute to Dr. King's legacy of service, dignity, and love for humanity. As Ms. Simpson so eloquently stated, she honors that legacy ``by spreading kindness to those in need.'' Originally from New York, Ms. Simpson has devoted her life to helping others. Since relocating to Vicksburg in 2014, she has volunteered five days a week at the Salvation Army, regularly serves meals at the River City Rescue Mission, and often provides assistance out of her own pocket. Whether serving her well-known spaghetti, organizing donations, or quietly meeting individual needs, Ms. Simpson serves without expectation of recognition. Her commitment extends beyond organized volunteerism. Over the Christmas holiday, she sponsored fifteen children through the Angel Tree program and distributed blankets to individuals facing hardship. As winter temperatures drop below freezing, she continues to collect coats and plans to serve breakfast to those in need, demonstrating foresight, humility, and deep respect for the organizations and people she serves. Ms. Simpson's service is rooted in profound personal strength. A mother of five, she has endured unimaginable loss, including the passing of two sons. Yet through grief, she continues to give, guided by faith, family, and an unwavering belief in human dignity. She reminds us that service is not about color, class, or circumstance--but about seeing people. Her children, whom she describes as ``blessed,'' often join her in serving others, ensuring that her legacy of compassion will carry forward to future generations. Ms. Simpson's life is a powerful reminder that true leadership is found not in titles, but [[Page E136]] in action. Her words--``Do whatever you can, because everybody needs help''--reflect the very best of our shared values. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Peggy Simpson for her tireless service, her generous heart, and her enduring commitment to uplifting her community. Her example strengthens us all and honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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HONORING MS. PEGGY SIMPSON Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 30 (Thursday, February 12, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E135-E136] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MS. PEGGY SIMPSON ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Thursday, February 12, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Peggy Simpson, an extraordinary woman whose life of service exemplifies the spirit of compassion, generosity, and community uplift that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., so powerfully championed. In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Ms. Simpson, alongside a small group of dedicated volunteers, served lunch to nearly 100 individuals at the River City Rescue Mission in Vicksburg, Mississippi. This act was not merely a meal--it was a living tribute to Dr. King's legacy of service, dignity, and love for humanity. As Ms. Simpson so eloquently stated, she honors that legacy ``by spreading kindness to those in need.'' Originally from New York, Ms. Simpson has devoted her life to helping others. Since relocating to Vicksburg in 2014, she has volunteered five days a week at the Salvation Army, regularly serves meals at the River City Rescue Mission, and often provides assistance out of her own pocket. Whether serving her well-known spaghetti, organizing donations, or quietly meeting individual needs, Ms. Simpson serves without expectation of recognition. Her commitment extends beyond organized volunteerism. Over the Christmas holiday, she sponsored fifteen children through the Angel Tree program and distributed blankets to individuals facing hardship. As winter temperatures drop below freezing, she continues to collect coats and plans to serve breakfast to those in need, demonstrating foresight, humility, and deep respect for the organizations and people she serves. Ms. Simpson's service is rooted in profound personal strength. A mother of five, she has endured unimaginable loss, including the passing of two sons. Yet through grief, she continues to give, guided by faith, family, and an unwavering belief in human dignity. She reminds us that service is not about color, class, or circumstance--but about seeing people. Her children, whom she describes as ``blessed,'' often join her in serving others, ensuring that her legacy of compassion will carry forward to future generations. Ms. Simpson's life is a powerful reminder that true leadership is found not in titles, but [[Page E136]] in action. Her words--``Do whatever you can, because everybody needs help''--reflect the very best of our shared values. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Peggy Simpson for her tireless service, her generous heart, and her enduring commitment to uplifting her community. Her example strengthens us all and honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.