From Jerry: Memorializing Stella Lopez
The following was written by Congressman Jerry McNerney shortly after the passing of Stella Lopez on August 16, 2007. Very similar sentiments were expressed directly to the Lopez family by the Congressman.
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Stella Lopez and would like to take this opportunity to convey my most heartfelt condolences to her family.
I am fortunate to have known Stella and am honored to have called her my dear friend. I am eternally grateful for the friendship and support that she lent me throughout the years. Although I have had the privilege of meeting many wonderful people, I can recall few who have embraced life as fully and were as dedicated to their family, friends and community as Stella.
As an educator and community leader, Stella’s passion for public service is an inspiration to us all. Her legacy is instilled in the minds of her students and in the hearts of those she touched in our community. Generations of Stockton families owe a debt of gratitude to Stella.
Stella will be long remembered and missed by the countless people whose lives she touched.
In Sympathy,
Jerry McNerney
Member of Congress
Congressman McNerney submitted the following to the Congressional Record shortly after Stella Lopez's 70th birthday celebration in May.
Madame Speaker, I ask my Colleagues to join me in honoring Stella G. Tays Lopez, a committed public servant whose hard work and dedication has improved the lives of countless residents throughout San Joaquin County and the 11th Congressional District.
A proud graduate of the Stockton school system, Stella went on to obtain her Master’s Degree from the University of the Pacific. Coupled with a strong belief in a quality education for all children and a desire to help the youth in her community, she served the Stockton Unified School District (SUSD) during a distinguished thirty-year career as an educator.
While working as both an elementary schoolteacher and school administrator for SUSD, Stella always strived to engage students in the learning process. She was a trusted mentor and role model to youth and was instrumental in implementing a program for truant students; all in an effort to keep students off of the street and in the classroom.
As the first female Hispanic administrator in the SUSD, Stella Lopez has long been an advocate for greater diversity throughout San Joaquin County. She has encouraged women and underserved members of the County to become active participants in their communities. After seeing her students benefit from learning the English language, she formed an after-school English language program for children and their parents as a way to strengthen their ties to their community.
Stella Lopez remains an active public servant, advocating for seniors and retired educators. She is currently a California Senior Assemblymember and works to promote and advance issues of importance to seniors throughout the State of California.
During her many years of public service, Stella has drawn strength and inspiration from her children, parents and family. It is their gifts of love, encouragement and understanding that continue to inspire her to serve the members of her community.
While many measure success in terms of personal achievement, it is noteworthy that Stella Lopez has dedicated her life’s work to improving the lives of others. Her efforts will continue to benefit the residents of San Joaquin County and the 11th Congressional District for years to come. It is with great pleasure that I ask my Colleagues to join me in honoring this distinguished advocate and leader.
Comments