“The Tennessee State Employees Association is deeply saddened by the passing of Representative Lois DeBerry, a long-time TSEA member and loyal friend to state employees,” said Robert O’Connell, Executive Director of TSEA.
Lois DeBerry passed away Sunday after a long battle with pancreatic cancer at age 68. She was the longest serving member of the House of Representatives and the first female speaker pro tempore. Her career in politics extended through seven governors and over 40 years.
Lois had a heart for serving and was willing to reach out for bi-partisan support, having many friends on both sides of the aisle. She helped state employees many times on key issues, and was a leader in advocating for better pay and benefits.
“Lois was a great asset to TSEA and was a member for decades. She will be sadly missed by state employees. She was a fearless leader with great respect on the hill,” said Bryan Merritt, chairman of the TSEA PAC, the Tennessee Employees Action Movement.
The family of Lois M. DeBerry has announced the following service arrangements:
Graveside Service
Saturday, August 3, 2013
10:00 AM
Elmwood Historic Cemetery, Memphis, TN 38104
Legacy Celebration
Saturday, August 3, 2013
12:00 PM
First Baptist Church, 2835 Broad Avenue, Memphis, TN 38112
In lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be made to the following:
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
www.pancan.org
Lois M. DeBerry Memorial Fund
National Black Caucus of State Legislators
P.O. Box 179, Madison, AL 35758
Greater Abyssinia Baptist Church, in memory of Lois M. DeBerry
1702 Silver Street, Memphis, TN 38106
The family of Lois M. DeBerry wishes to express their most sincere appreciation for the tremendous outpouring of support and encouragement during this time.
