HR0972 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0972 LRB104 22288 MST 38702 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives were saddened to learn of the passing of Spencer Leak Jr., a distinguished businessman, civic leader, mentor, and third-generation steward of one of Illinois' most respected family-owned institutions; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak served as vice president of Leak & Sons Funeral Homes, a historic Black-owned enterprise that has served generations of families throughout Chicago, Cook County, and the State of Illinois with dignity, compassion, professionalism, and care; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Andrew Leak, and his father, Spencer Leak Sr., and devoted his life to preserving and strengthening a family legacy that became an enduring pillar of the African American community and a trusted institution for countless Illinois families; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale with a Bachelor of Science in Mortuary Science and Funeral Service and became a licensed funeral director in 1989, dedicating more than three decades to serving families during some of life's most difficult moments; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak, through his leadership, expanded Leak & Sons Funeral Homes operational excellence and continued its tradition of service, helping thousands of families each year navigate grief with dignity and respect; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak was known for his generosity of spirit and commitment to community service beyond his professional accomplishments; he mentored young African American men through 100 Black Men, served on the boards of Operation PUSH and the Better Boys Foundation, and devoted himself to strengthening opportunities for future generations; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak was an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Liberty Baptist Church, and the Illinois Funeral Directors Association, embodying a life rooted in faith, fellowship, and service; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak's leadership and contributions were recognized throughout his lifetime, including being named in Who's Who of Black Chicago and receiving the Men of Excellence Award from the Chicago Defender; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak honorably carried the responsibility of the family name, which for generations of Chicagoans represented more than a business; it represented trust, stability, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to serving the community with grace and distinction; and

WHEREAS, Spencer Leak leaves behind a legacy of service and devotion, as well as his beloved wife, Dr. Donna Leak; his children, Spencer Leak III and Emma Sophia Leak; and numerous family members, friends, colleagues, mentees, and community members whose lives were enriched by his presence; 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 Spencer Leak Jr. 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 Spencer Leak as a symbol of our deepest sympathy.