Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, today I rise to mourn the loss of Roderick ``Rod'' Durham, a Tallahassee teacher, actor, community leader, role model, and dear friend. Rod was born in Maryland in 1964 and moved to Tallahassee in his teens. He graduated from Leon High School in 1982 with my sister, Cissy, and then returned to teach there in 1997. However, Rod was far, far more than a teacher. He was a role model. His students knew they could trust to confide in him or look to him for inspiration in difficult times. His personality was larger than life. He embodied joy and happiness. His positive energy would fill any room with smiles, love, and laughter. His loss is heartbreaking for so many in north Florida, but I am blessed to have called him my friend. Our community will be forever grateful for his service and spirit. Rest in peace, dear friend. Rest in peace. ____________________”