HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHNNIE MAE STREATER

On 2025-05-15, Representative Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHNNIE MAE STREATER" in the House.

HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHNNIE MAE STREATER

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 82 (Thursday, May 15, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 82 (Thursday, May 15, 2025)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E436-E437] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHNNIE MAE STREATER ______ HON. JONATHAN L. JACKSON of illinois in the house of representatives Thursday, May 15, 2025 Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life of Johnnie Mae Streater, a woman who graced this world for 81 years. While her passing marks the end of an era, her legacy of selfless service to others and her unwavering faith will continue to live on through the family she leaves behind, her beloved daughter, Tamond, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Born on October 28, 1942, in Leesburg, Florida, Johnnie Mae was the daughter of Annie Lee Davis, a homemaker, and Samuel Streater, a steelworker. She grew up with a strong foundation of love, faith, and hard work that would guide her throughout her life. ``Momma-Streater,'' as she was known by her family, graduated from Fifth Avenue High School in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1962. Soon after, she relocated to Illinois, where she began her dedicated career as a Caseworker with the Illinois Department of Public Aid. For 30 years, she served the community with compassion and integrity, touching countless lives before retiring with grace. In the 1970's, Johnnie Mae embraced the Lord Jesus Christ into her life, a decision that would profoundly shape the rest of her life. She Joined Chicago Miracle Temple, formerly known as the Regal Theatre, founded by the [[Page E437]] esteemed R.W. Schambach on the Southside of Chicago. There, she not only became a devout Christian but also an ordained Evangelist, embodying the strength and devotion of her faith. Despite never obtaining a driver's license, Johnnie Mae remained a steadfast, lifelong rider of the Chicago Transit Authority, traveling daily by bus for her work and church duties. Her determination and resilience were reflected in every aspect of her life. Johnnie Mae was revered by all who knew her. In the neighborhood, when she walked down the street, there was an unspoken respect. Neighbors would remove their hats, hide their beer cans, and straighten up their behavior, for they knew that ``Momma Streater'' was a woman of integrity, a true representative of God's love. Her presence commanded respect, and no one wanted to disappoint her with anything less than their best. Johnnie Mae was the rock of her family, the heart of her community, and a source of unwavering love and strength. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the life of Ms. Johnnie Mae Streater. ____________________