HONORING SPENCER LEEK, JR.

On 2026-06-04, Representative Jonathan L. Jackson (D-IL-1) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING SPENCER LEEK, JR." in the House.

HONORING SPENCER LEEK, JR.

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 95 (Thursday, June 4, 2026)] [House] [Pages H3895-H3896] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING SPENCER LEEK, JR. (Mr. JACKSON of Illinois asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. JACKSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, we pause today to honor the life of Spencer Leek, Jr., a son of Chicago, a steward of a sacred family legacy, and a servant of countless families in their moments of deepest sorrow. The story of the Leek family is, in many ways, the story of Black perseverance in America. In 1933, Reverend [[Page H3896]] Andrew Leek established a funeral home so that Black families, denied dignity in life by segregation, could at least be afforded dignity in death. Spencer Leek, Jr., carried that mission forward with devotion, compassion, and grace. From answering phones at age 12 to becoming a licensed funeral director and vice president of Leek and Sons, he understood that his work was not merely a business, but it was a ministry. He comforted the grieving, uplifted the forgotten, and ensured that every family, regardless of means, was treated with respect and humanity. For generations, Leek and Sons has stood as a trusted institution in Chicago and across this Nation in Chicago and America's Black communities. Spencer Leek, Jr., strengthened that institution by remaining deeply devoted to family, community, and service. He helped shepherd home-going celebrations for civil rights leaders, public servants, artists, and everyday citizens, whose lives mattered equally in his eyes. His legacy reminds us that history is not only made by those who stand before huge crowds, but also by those who quietly serve others with fidelity and love. Mr. Speaker, we honor Spencer Leek, Jr., by continuing his commitment to dignity, compassion, and community. ____________________