Both Democratic and Republican senators shed tears and shared memories Thursday of Sen. Vernon Malone, a Raleigh Democrat who died April 18.
They described a man who endured segregation in his youth and, as an adult, led the unification of the Raleigh and Wake County school systems, which helped build the system's consistently strong reputation and fuel the county's rapid growth.
"Vernon had a vision and the courage to implement that vision," said Sen. Dan Blue, the Raleigh Democrat who took Malone's seat.
They remembered his attractive handwriting on the notes he passed, the holiday party held by Malone and his late wife, Susan, his sage advice, his soft voice and his warmth.
"A steely gentleman," said Sen. Josh Stein, a Raleigh Democrat.
The normally boisterous Sen. Tony Rand, a Fayetteville Democrat and one of the legislature's most influential figures, broke down in the midst of his remarks.
Sen. Tom Apodaca, a Hendersonville Republican, said he spent part of the morning on his porch contemplating what to say: "All I could hear was Vernon saying, 'Please don't say much. Get on with the business of the state.'"
Blog RSS feed
Re: Senate remembers Vernon Malone
Sen. Malone was a titan for our community, and he made a difference. His efforts helped make Wake County such a great place to live. The quality of life we enjoy, and why so many have made this their home is no accident. We should remember that this fall before we dismantle his life's work.