Lynn A. Westmoreland: “Mr. Speaker, America was dealt an awful setback over the weekend in Miami, Florida. The distinguished actor, director…”

“Mr. Speaker, America was dealt an awful setback over the weekend in Miami, Florida. The distinguished actor, director, producer and advocate Ossie Davis passed away at the age of 87. He died doing what he loved most: he was shooting a movie. Mr. Speaker, Ossie Davis stood out both in the fields of theater and human justice. We have enjoyed all of Davis's regal performances in recent movies like 'Grumpy Old Men,' 'The Client,' 'Do the Right Thing,' and 'Jungle Fever,' and in television programs like 'Evening Shade.' Mr. Speaker, Ossie Davis was also a powerful social advocate. He was a tireless worker on behalf of the civil rights, and particularly voting rights, for all Americans. It is remarkable to note that Ossie Davis was also half of one of the most revered couples of American stage and screen. Mr. Davis's wife, Ruby Dee Davis, appeared in more than 20 films and scores of theater productions herself. In December, the Kennedy Center here in Washington honored both Ossie and Dee Davis as part of the 27th Kennedy Center Honors for their extraordinary contributions to the arts. The two were married for 57 years. Ossie Davis is survived by his wife.”