BY LOUIS C. WARD
LEESBURG – Leesburg, Florida’s community and civic leaders, clergy members, former employees, and representatives Leesburg’s Community Development Corporation, Lake County Democratic Black Caucus, The Carver Heights H.S. Reunion Committee, Leesburg, Florida, Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and many others showed up with love and appreciation for Ms. Carolyn Samuel, who has permanently and positively touched the lives of many individuals who have crossed her path, including me, the writer of this piece.
It was a two-hour heartfelt occasion, Thursday evening, November 7, 2024 when the Leesburg Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Committee (MLKCC) held its Farewell event for its President Carolyn Samuel at the Rogers Park Building at Venetian Gardens in Leesburg, Florida.
Born and mostly raised in Leesburg, Florida, Ms. Carolyn Samuel, a petite woman with a bright smile always showed how to wield authority with grace and love, is finally taking her skills and know-how to the Big State of Texas. Matter of fact, if you are reading this piece, Ms. Samuel is already there enjoying life with her family.
Ms. Samuel, a soon to be Octogenarian, may slow down, but she won’t shut down. A Texas Delta Sorority Sister is waiting for her to get busy as soon as she arrives.
Proclamations, presentations, and just kind words of admiration expressed by many were truly indicative of the experiences and interactions Ms. Samuel had with many she interacted with during the many years she lived and worked in Leesburg and Lake County, Florida.
Emotionally discussing her mindset regarding her decision to stay or leave Leesburg, Ms. Samuel said, “It was hard and bittersweet. I had to weigh the pros and cons for each. Finally, I thought it was best to leave because I have my daughter and a wonderful son-in-law in Texas, where I had lived before for twenty years.”
Like the MKLCC members expected, Ms. Samuel informed them, “Don’t worry, I’ll be in contact regarding the 2025 MLKCC events.”
Yes, Ms. Samuel is gone, but in our hearts she will never be forgotten.
