AL HR402

House resolution mourning the death of Mr. Joseph Pettway, Sr., who died on April 16, 2011, at age 93.

Recognizes Pettway's role as a Civil Rights trailblazer, community leader, and businessman who devoted his life to equality for Black citizens.

Honors his achievements including being the first Black foreman at Southern Railroad (retired 1969), founding member of the Safford Improvement Association, and voter registration activist who overcame Dallas County Board rejections before registering under the 1965 Voting Rights Act.

Notes his civil rights activism included owning/operating Pettway's Place, serving as shareholder in community businesses, conducting citizenship classes, and transporting voters to polls on Election Days.

Records his death with deep sadness and offers highest tribute to his life of achievement and service to his family and community.