SR0975 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0975 LRB101 19591 ECR 69067 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Gregory A. Carmouche of Chicago, who passed away on September 3, 2019; and

WHEREAS, Gregory Carmouche was born in Chicago to Cleveland and Murel (Jacobs) Carmouche on November 16, 1952; and

WHEREAS, Gregory Carmouche was a passionate and accomplished musician, who played professionally as a percussionist: he was a band leader for over 40 years, leading the Chicago-based Afro-Caribbean jazz group currently known as Pa-Ti for the last 20 years; and

WHEREAS, In the warmer months, Gregory Carmouche would lead impromptu public jam sessions with fellow instrumentalists at Chicago's various parks and beaches, bringing joy to the city; he was a regular performer at 63rd Street Beach; and

WHEREAS, As a musician, Greg toured the world with Curtis Mayfield and worked with celebrated artists, including Donny Hathaway, Ledisi, Maysa, Gerald Albright, Jean-Paul Bourelly, and many others; and

WHEREAS, When he was not playing music, Greg Carmouche worked in the construction industry; he contributed his energy and talents to a number of landmark buildings in the Chicago area; and

WHEREAS, Gregory Carmouche was well-known in the community for his positive thinking, his self-determination, and as a genuine voice for the arts; he will be sorely missed for his energy, his humor, his leadership, and his passion for life, music, and family; and

WHEREAS, Gregory Carmouche was preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland and Murel (Jacobs) Carmouche; his brother, Rhahim Khalil (Cleveland Carmouche Jr); and his sisters, Barbara and Patricia Carmouche; and

WHEREAS, Gregory Carmouche is survived by his brothers, Allen and Reginald Carmouche; his sister, Johnnie Carmouche; and several nieces and nephews who he cherished like his own children; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Gregory A. Carmouche 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 Gregory Carmouche as an expression of our deepest sympathy.