2024 House Resolution 314

Whereas, It is with great admirations that our body remembers the life of Lillie Lester, who left an enduring legacy on the Michigan Capitol during a pivotal time in the civil rights era; and

Whereas, Lillie Rosa Lester was born in Haddock, Georgia on May 5, 1922. She was the only child born to John T and Willie Mae Williams. Her family instilled the values of helping others at a very early age, and she carried it through her life regardless of the enormous obstacles faced by African Americans in the South; and

Whereas, Lillie’s journey began amidst the challenges of racial segregation in the Jim Crow South. She demonstrated resilience from an early age by working in a canning factory as a teenager. During the Second World War, she contributed to the American mass production effort by testing munition firing pins as one of the iconic “Rosie the Riveters.”; and

Whereas, In 1948, she made her way to Detroit, where she became active in Detroit churches, teaching Sunday school, and singing choir. Lillie found herself drawn to politics, and she would go on to break the gender and race barrier as an assistant sergeant-at-arms for the Michigan House of Representatives, through her friendship with Rep. Daisy Elliot, who is a co-author of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act; and

Whereas, Lillie became a trusted link between lawmakers and the public, embodying both strength and compassion. Lillie’s influence extended far beyond her official duties. As a founding member of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus, she played an active role in the civil rights movement, guiding many legislators who considered her a mentor and a maternal figure. Her unwavering dedication, faith, and kindness earned her the affectionate title of “Mother Hen” among those she served; and

Whereas, In a heartwarming moment in 2019, Lillie returned to the Capitol, receiving a heartfelt standing ovation when State Rep. Sherry Gay-Dagnogo recognized her significant contributions. The occasion served as a powerful reminder of the lasting mark that she had left on the state legislature; and

Whereas, Lillie Lester is survived by her daughters Mary Lewis and Patricia Pullman, as well as four grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, and three great great grandchildren; now therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body recognize the life and impact of Lillie Lester as the first woman and first Black woman to ever serve as a legislative sergeant-at-arms in the United States. Her contributions to this body and Michigan are treasured and will never be forgotten; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Lester family as evidence of our lasting esteem of her.