Illinois state Rep. Wyvetter Younge

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Colleagues of the late state Rep. Wyvetter Younge remembered her as someone who worked tirelessly for her district and to make life better for all Illinois residents.

Younge, 78, a Democrat from East St. Louis, died Dec. 26 after a brief illness.  She was first elected to the House in 1974.

”She was not only focused on finding big solutions to big problems, but also dedicated to helping every individual constituent in need, oftentimes giving constituents cash from her wallet to pay their utility bills,” states the House Resolution honoring Younge.

Younge was known for driving 90 miles each way to and from Springfield each day so that she could care for, at first, her young children, and later her ailing husband.  She championed better schools, affordable housing, a higher minimum wage and job opportunities and economic development for her downstate district.

”Wyvetter was a symbol of consistency,” said Rep. Marlow Colvin, D-Chicago.  ”She was the model of grace and she was the perfect example of what it means to be committed to something.”

Several House members noted that Younge nearly always beat them to the House floor-even when they thought they had gotten there early-and that she was often busy writing notes to her constituents.

”Wyvetter Younge taught me the most important lesson I learned (in the General Assembly)-to put your district first at all times,” said a choked up Rep. Careen Gordon, D-Coal City.

Rep. Monique Davis, D-Chicago, said Younge was one of the most passionate lawmakers she’s ever met and that East St. Louis never had a better legislator.

”She came here every day dedicated to the community that sent her,” Davis said.  ”She didn’t pretend to be anything but that.”

Eddie L. Jackson, a former East. St. Louis city councilman, was appointed to Younge’s seat.  Since Younge won reelection in November, Jackson will fill that term, which ends in January 2011.