In Honor of Susan T. Kennedy

IN HONOR OF SUSAN T. KENNEDY -- (Extensions of Remarks - May 21, 2004)

SPEECH OF
HON. NANCY PELOSI
OF CALIFORNIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
THURSDAY, MAY 20, 2004

Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I rise to pay tribute to the life and work of my longtime friend, Susan T. Kennedy, who passed away on April 17, 2004. Susie was a great woman and an exceptional public servant. We will miss her terribly.

Susie's life was one of service and political and community activism. Beginning with her work with the Service Employees Union, Susie was a tireless advocate of labor. At the age of 21, she was elected to the San Francisco Democratic County Central Committee-the youngest ever to serve-and was reelected for the next 25 years.

In 1962, Susie joined the staff of Democratic Assemblyman Phillip Burton. Upon his election to Congress, she became his Administrative Assistant, supervising his District Office in San Francisco. She was his trusted advisor, and he depended on her great political instincts, judgment, and understanding of the people of San Francisco.

Susie was absolutely committed to the constituents and elected officials she served. After working for both Phil and Sala Burton for 25 years, she graciously and expertly helped with my transition to Congress after I won a special election in 1987 to succeed Sala Burton. I will never forget her support and friendship. Susie later joined with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area to help create a lasting memorial to Congressman Phil Burton.

Susan Kennedy was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend. To her sons, Marc and Frank, and to her sisters and brothers, Dolores, Bernie, Mary, Walter, Kathleen and Tom, thank you for sharing your beloved Susie with us. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of her family at this sad time.

END