SR0248 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0248 LRB103 32239 LAW 61453 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Rev. Dr. John Q. Owens Jr.; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Owens served in the U.S. Army during World War II; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Owens, a prolific preacher-teacher, became a connectional officer in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church and served as a pastor for 40 years; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Owens pastored at Bethel AME Church in Madison for over 20 years, where he served faithfully with perfect attendance alongside his wife, Dr. Dorothy Owens; he retired under Bishop John R. Bryant (Ret.); and

WHEREAS, Rev. Owens and his wife previously served at three other churches for a combined 20 years before joining Bethel AME Church; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Owens served as the social action director/consultant for the AME Church, following the transitioning of Dr. Leroy Nesbit in South Africa, and as a member of the church's general board meeting for 16 years; and

WHEREAS, Rev. Owens will be remembered for his leadership, guidance, and teachings; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Rev. Dr. John Q. Owens Jr. and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Rev. Owens as an expression of our deepest sympathy.