HR0086 98TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0086 LRB098 07384 GRL 37448 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of James B. Blanton III; and

WHEREAS, James Blanton III was born on February 6, 1949; his parents were Martha and James Blanton Jr.; he married Emily Blanton on December 25, 1976; and

WHEREAS, James Blanton III was a native of Knoxville, Tennessee; he earned his high school diploma from Austin High School in 1967, his bachelor's degree in commerce from Knoxville College in 1971, and his master's degree in business administration from the University of Tennessee in 1973; and

WHEREAS, James Blanton III dedicated his life to improving the world around him and making a difference that would strengthen the brotherhood of man; he supported numerous causes, including youth issues, the protection of civil rights for all, enhancing educational opportunities, leadership development, and developing innovative programs that would empower young men; and

WHEREAS, James Blanton III served in Alpha Phi Alpha National Headquarters for more than 21 years, 17 of those years as the Executive Director; he served as the President for Chicago Youth and Community Services and BECOM Inc. of Chicago; he was a member of the PHA family, North Star Lodge #1, Pride of Hiriam Ct #55, LCOP, Talma Chapter #2, Arabic Ct #44, the Knights Templar, Commandery, Western Consistory #28, and Holy Royal Arch; he was also an active member of more than 20 fraternity investment groups; and

WHEREAS, James Blanton III was the recipient of over 10 honorary listings from such groups as Who's Who in America to Outstanding Community Leaders of America; and

WHEREAS, James Blanton III was preceded in death by his parents; and

WHEREAS, James Blanton III is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Emily; his sons, Joseph (Tressy), Sidney, and James IV (Chris); his grandchildren, Dewayne, Andre, Darius, Avery, and Jo Via; his sisters, Emily B. Mathis, Rose B. Davis and Paulette B. Herbin; his brother, Michael W. Wanton; his sisters-in-law, Jo Ann (Larry) Davis and Lia Via (Henry) Clark; his brother-in-law, Romia Woods; and his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, great-great nieces and great-great nephews, cousins, and friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-EIGHTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn, along with his family and friends, the passing of James B. Blanton III; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of James Blanton III as an expression of our sympathy.