HR0666 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0666 LRB104 20375 LAW 33832 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Mabel Orange, who passed away on November 12, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Mabel Orange was born to Jefferson Sr. and Eloise Nethery in Chicago on April 12, 1949; she married Guy Orange Jr. on July 1, 1967, and they had two children, Christel and Yolanda; and

WHEREAS, Mabel Orange, being hearing-impaired herself, carried a deep passion for serving individuals with special needs, leading her to a 33-year career at Jesse Spalding, where she became one of the first women of color to serve as a child welfare attendant under SEIU; she was loved by the children she served, and many remembered her heart, her patience, and her commitment to their care; she retired with immense pride in the work she had done; and

WHEREAS, Mabel Orange committed to her faith at an early age and was raised at First Steadfast M.B.C.; after retirement, she joined St. John Evangelist M.B.C., where she worshiped faithfully until her health failed her in 2022; her worship extended beyond church walls, and her social media became her ministry, blessing many with praises, prayers, and encouragement; she also sang in multiple choirs throughout her life, including under Isabel Joseph Johnson, with Chicago Mass Choir under Calvin Bridges, and alongside Willie Wilson; and

WHEREAS, Mabel Orange spent her later years traveling with family, enjoying time with friends, playing pennies for peace of mind, and above all, cherishing every moment with her grandchildren, Donnisha and Deon Jr.; and

WHEREAS, Mabel Orange will be remembered for her love, her service, and her unwavering faith; and

WHEREAS, Mabel Orange was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Guy; her daughter, Yolanda; and her siblings, Jefferson Jr., Ronald, Michael, and Myrna; and

WHEREAS, Mabel Orange is survived by her daughter, Christel; her grandchildren, Donnisha (Donnell) and Deon Jr.; her son-in-law, Deon Sr.; her siblings-in-law, Marilyn and Ray; and a host of relatives, friends, and those whose lives she touched; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Mabel Orange and extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Mabel Orange as an expression of our deepest sympathy.