In Celebration of Edythe McTaggart's 100th Birthday

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mrs. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, I rise today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to Edythe McTaggart as she celebrates her 100th birthday. This significant milestone is worthy of commendation.

Edythe McTaggart was born August 21, 1920 to Edmond Parent and Edith Tice, and grew up in Trenton, Michigan. Throughout her childhood, Edythe enjoyed performing with her sister Dottie, and even sang on a children's radio show in Detroit at the age of nine. During the Great Depression, Edythe stayed home to care for her father who lost his job. To get through the troubling era, she would collect discarded skim milk from a local creamery and help her father knock coal off freight trains to heat their house. At the age of 17, Edythe became a nanny where she earned one dollar a day plus room and board. Despite the meager wages, the impact of the Great Depression taught Edythe how to be frugal in her spending and allowed her to save enough earnings to buy a wedding dress when she got married.

In 1940, Edythe married her husband, Robert McTaggart. The two built a home together in Wyandotte and completed much of the work themselves. Although it was difficult finding materials during the war, they were able to move into the new home in 1948. Throughout the war, the two also started a family and welcomed sons Robert Jr., Thomas, and David by 1952. After raising her children, Edythe returned to school and earned her bachelor's degree in education at the age of 50. She became a teacher in the Taylor School District, and later earned a master's degree in special education. Until her retirement 35 years ago, she dedicated her teaching career to helping children with special needs and disabilities.

Beyond the classroom, Edythe is fond of traveling and has explored the world with Robert. Together, they visited Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Upon her retirement, Edythe and Robert began spending winters in Florida, until Robert's passing in 1998. Today, Edythe remains active in the community and enjoys reading, crocheting, and spending time with her sons, three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Her attitude and spirit continue to shine bright for all to see. Throughout her 100 years, Edythe has demonstrated a true commitment to her family and her community. Her strength and perseverance through turbulent times has provided a lasting example of what can be accomplished when we all work together and treat one another with compassion, respect, and dignity.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Edythe McTaggart on her 100th birthday. I join with Edythe's friends and family in extending my best and warmest wishes to her on this special day. May her 100th year bring her many blessings and a continued life full of laughter, peace, and every happiness.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source