Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of a beloved and invaluable neighbor who will always be remembered in our community for his servant leadership, selflessness, and good will to all. Charles Chestnut III was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. As a young man, he served in the U.S. Army and attended Bethune-Cookman University and the Eckels School of Mortuary Science in Philadelphia. After returning home to Gainesville, he was elected to the Alachua County school board and worked for 16 years to represent all students and families. He was the first Black Alachua County school board member and went on to become a commissioner for the Board of Alachua County Commissioners. He was also recognized as a talented businessman, operating Chestnut Funeral Home for over six decades. In addition to his impressive career, he led the Alachua County NAACP Youth Council and was an active member in the Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church of Gainesville. He was a staunch advocate of civil rights, a believer in education, and a friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Mr. Chestnut was married to Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Moore Chestnut for more than 45 years and was the father to six children: Alachua County Commissioner Charles ``Chuck'' Chestnut IV, local businessman and attorney Christopher Chestnut, and daughters Pamela, Janice, Tia, and Candace. I thank him for his service to our country and our community.…”