Explanation
Title
In loving memory of Ray Jones. Columbus City Council extends sincere condolences to the family and friends of Ray Jones on this sorrowful occasion of his passing.
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WHEREAS, Ray's loving kindness was felt in his home as well as the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and he was widely recognized in the community where he served; and
WHEREAS, Ray was a longtime member of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and was widely recognized for his frequent visits to the Ohio State House and the Ohio Department of MR/DD., He also served on the Columbus Advisory Committee on Disability Issues, the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council and many, many other committees and organizations to which he dedicated his time, talent and energy.
WHEREAS, Ray was instrumental in the development and continuation of the very successful bi-annual conference called "SOLIDAITY" which will be held this May, 2007 in Columbus. Ray was a driven man of many words, always eager to have his viewpoint expressed. His booming voice could be heard coming from the back of a committee meeting room to accentuate or highlight a point being made. He had many, many friends, colleagues and admirers. He will surely be missed and his legacy of courageous activism will be left behind for those of us challenged to carry on his good work; and
WHEREAS, Ray always said that he would rather die than end up in a congregate facility himself and he was just as passionate about the right of everyone to live in a home of their own. Housing and accessibility were two of his passions. We will miss him clearly; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby pay tribute to the memory of the honorable Ray Jones.