HR0944 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0944 LRB101 23223 LAW 74367 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Dwain P. Williams of Chicago, who passed away on December 3, 2020 at the age of 65; and

WHEREAS, Dwain Williams was born in Chicago to James and Vivian L. Williams; he was affectionately known to many as "TC"; he attended Altgeld Elementary School and Harper High School; he served in the U.S. Army starting in 1976; he served as a wire systems installer and operator in numerous duty stations around the world, with his last duty station being the 501st Signal Battalion of the 101st Airborne Assault Division; following active duty, he served in the U.S. Army Reserves for two years while attending college; he was meritoriously decorated and received several commendations, including expert badges for M16 rifle/sharpshooter and hand grenade; over the course of his life, he acquired four degrees and over 80 certifications in numerous mathematical, scientific, and independent studies; and

WHEREAS, Dwain Williams began his 26-year career with the Chicago Fire Department in December 1992; he was assigned to Engine 122; he served as an Emergency Medical Technician and a CAD Computer Instructor; he was a part of Command Van-274 and the Hazardous Incident Team/5-1-1; he taught Response to Terrorism Basic Concepts as a Chicago Fire Academy instructor; he was promoted to fire engineer in 2005; he was promoted to lieutenant in 2011; he completed his work for the City of Chicago as a fire tactical desk and watch officer in the Office of Emergency Management and Communications; he retired in 2017; during his career, he was honored with countless accolades and awards; and

WHEREAS, Dwain Williams mentored many at-risk youth in his community for over 10 years; he served as an instructor with the Chicago Park District, working to mold young minds; he also served as a computer and physical education teacher at St. Philip Neri School; his mission was to save as many young lives as he could reach; and

WHEREAS, Dwain Williams was an active member of the American Legion; he committed to his faith at a young age and previously attended the Harris Temple AOH Church of God In Christ and Mount Vernon Church, where he developed a passion for basketball, music, and acting; he played with many bands, including The Rams and Mixed Nutz; he loved mathematics, science, and technology; he was an avid chessman; he enjoyed fishing and relaxing on the water; and

WHEREAS, Dwain Williams was a passionate and supportive husband and father; he set an extraordinary standard for his children regarding love, education, civic responsibility, the importance of a work ethic, unity, peace, and commitment to the betterment of humanity; he instilled the importance of self-worth, self-expression, confidence, and hard work in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; he will be remembered for his courage and exemplifying what it means to be a hero; his legacy will live on; and

WHEREAS, Dwain Williams was preceded in death by his parents; and

WHEREAS, Dwain Williams is survived by his wife, Karen Armstrong-Williams; his four children, Tarmarcea (Chalil), Kenya (Carlos), Diona, and Dakeeda (Quintin); his godson, Erick; his brother, Keith (Jacqueline); his sister, Anunka (Stanley); his special sister-in-law, Linda; his grandchildren, Chail, Chailzon Sr., Chatari, Chabreel, Charity, Mi'chelle, Michael Jr., Jordan, and Zion; his six great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Dwain P. Williams 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 Dwain Williams as an expression of our deepest sympathy.