Floor Speech2026-06-02

HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MANUEL KILLEBREW, JR.

Context

On 2026-06-02, Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS-2) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MANUEL KILLEBREW, JR." in the House.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E507] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MANUEL KILLEBREW, JR. ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Manuel Killebrew, Jr., a devoted son, brother, friend, and public servant from Marks, Mississippi. Manuel Killebrew, Jr. was born on August 9, 1978 to Manuel and Jewel (Phipps) Killebrew. A proud native of Marks, he was raised in a close- knit community that shaped his character and his commitment to service. At a young age Manuel accepted Christ on August 26, 1987, at Greenhill M.B. Church under the leadership of Reverend L.C. Tyler, Sr., a faith that sustained throughout his life. Manuel was a graduate of Quitman County High School, where he was an active and spirited member of the Quitman County Marching Band--playing the drums with the steady rhythm and dependable heart that would come to define him. His first job was at Brown's Grocery Store in Marks, where he learned the value of hard work and community ties. He later worked at Quitman County Hospital as a floorman and at Super Valu Grocery Store, always performing his duties with humility and diligence. On June 1, 2007, Manuel answered another call to serve by joining the Mississippi National Guard. He served with honor and dedication and was discharged September 28, 2011, having been ranked as a Specialist in Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 198th Armor. His service reflected the same steady, reliable character he showed in civilian life--a readiness to help, to protect, and to stand beside his neighbors. Manuel enjoyed helping others in practical ways--assisting car dealers by picking up vehicles from auctions and lending a hand wherever needed. He was known for his warm sense of humor; he loved joking with family and friends, especially when he was with his beloved niece, Kaleigh (Chance). Those simple joys--work, laughter, family, faith--were the threads of a life lived for others. Today we honor Manuel's memory: a life marked by service, loyalty, and love. We remember his devotion to family and community, his steady presence in times of need, and the many small, generous acts that endeared him to so many. Though he is no longer with us, his example endures in the hearts of those who knew him and in the community he helped to build. Mr. Speaker, I ask that the condolences of the House be conveyed to the family and friends of Manuel Killebrew, Jr. May they find comfort in their memories of him and in the knowledge that his life made a meaningful difference. ____________________

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HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MANUEL KILLEBREW, JR. Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 93 (Tuesday, June 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E507] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF MANUEL KILLEBREW, JR. ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Manuel Killebrew, Jr., a devoted son, brother, friend, and public servant from Marks, Mississippi. Manuel Killebrew, Jr. was born on August 9, 1978 to Manuel and Jewel (Phipps) Killebrew. A proud native of Marks, he was raised in a close- knit community that shaped his character and his commitment to service. At a young age Manuel accepted Christ on August 26, 1987, at Greenhill M.B. Church under the leadership of Reverend L.C. Tyler, Sr., a faith that sustained throughout his life. Manuel was a graduate of Quitman County High School, where he was an active and spirited member of the Quitman County Marching Band--playing the drums with the steady rhythm and dependable heart that would come to define him. His first job was at Brown's Grocery Store in Marks, where he learned the value of hard work and community ties. He later worked at Quitman County Hospital as a floorman and at Super Valu Grocery Store, always performing his duties with humility and diligence. On June 1, 2007, Manuel answered another call to serve by joining the Mississippi National Guard. He served with honor and dedication and was discharged September 28, 2011, having been ranked as a Specialist in Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 198th Armor. His service reflected the same steady, reliable character he showed in civilian life--a readiness to help, to protect, and to stand beside his neighbors. Manuel enjoyed helping others in practical ways--assisting car dealers by picking up vehicles from auctions and lending a hand wherever needed. He was known for his warm sense of humor; he loved joking with family and friends, especially when he was with his beloved niece, Kaleigh (Chance). Those simple joys--work, laughter, family, faith--were the threads of a life lived for others. Today we honor Manuel's memory: a life marked by service, loyalty, and love. We remember his devotion to family and community, his steady presence in times of need, and the many small, generous acts that endeared him to so many. Though he is no longer with us, his example endures in the hearts of those who knew him and in the community he helped to build. Mr. Speaker, I ask that the condolences of the House be conveyed to the family and friends of Manuel Killebrew, Jr. May they find comfort in their memories of him and in the knowledge that his life made a meaningful difference. ____________________