On 2026-07-13, Representative Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL-24) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING AND PAYING TRIBUTE TO MRS. ORA B. BENDROSS" in the House.
HONORING AND PAYING TRIBUTE TO MRS. ORA B. BENDROSS Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 113 (Monday, July 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 113 (Monday, July 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E671-E672] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING AND PAYING TRIBUTE TO MRS. ORA B. BENDROSS ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, July 13, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor one of South Florida's most beloved citizens, the late Mrs. Ora B. Bendross, who was affectionately known by many as ``Nana.'' Mrs. Bendross was known throughout the Miami-Dade County community as the lady with an enormous heart, who never ever met a stranger. Many in the South Florida community have experienced her kindness and generosity, and her home, became a refuge for some of today's most well-known community leaders. Those who knew her best will remember her open invitation to ``stop by and have dinner with my family.'' [[Page E672]] Mrs. Bendross adored her children and taught each of them the importance of an education. As a dedicated member of the Historic Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and later Bible Missionary Baptist Church, she served on several missionary boards, sang in the choir, served on an usher board and was fully committed to serving the Lord. Mrs. Bendross is preceded in death by her husband of 63 years Mr. Willie J. Bendross, and three of her seven children; Donald Bendross, Dallas Bendross and Joyce Bendross Forchion. She leaves to carry on her legacy her children; Pinnie (Patricia) Bendross, James Bendross, Dr. Dorothy Bendross Mindingall, Bennie (Yvonne) Bendross and a host of grandchildren, great-great and great-great-great grandchildren. Please join me in honoring the late Mrs. Ora B. Bendross for her unwavering faith and commitment to her family and her community. ____________________