HR0326 102ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0326 LRB102 18567 LAW 26856 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of David Nathaniel Johnson, who passed away on May 15, 2021 at the age of 72; and

WHEREAS, David Johnson grew up in Harvey; he graduated from Thornton Township High School in Harvey, where he was later inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame; he graduated from Howard University; he later earned his graduate degree in Political Science from Rutgers University; and

WHEREAS, David Johnson served as the first Black mayor of Harvey for three consecutive terms from 1983 to 1995; during his tenure, he was noted for his diligence to the city and for being well respected among area elected officials; and

WHEREAS, David Johnson was a professor of African History, African American History, Political Science, Sociology, and Urban Studies at South Suburban College for 36 years, and he taught over 10,000 students during his teaching career; he retired as chairman of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences in 2008; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his retirement, David Johnson continued his service to the community; he was a proud Howard University Bison and a passionate advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); and

WHEREAS, David Johnson was known for being intellectual, insightful, and enlightening; he was a lifelong student and exemplified excellence in everything he did; he will be remembered for the enduring impact he made on the lives of those he met; and

WHEREAS, David Johnson is survived by his wife of 26 years, Bonnye Johnson; his daughters, Naima and Iman; and his siblings; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED SECOND GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of David Nathaniel Johnson 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 David Johnson as an expression of our deepest sympathy.