- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: April 9, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON
of mississippi
in the house of representatives
Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Mrs. Laura Norwood Davis, a trailblazer, educator, servant leader, and devoted community advocate from Carroll County, Mississippi, whose extraordinary life of service left an indelible mark upon her community and our state.
Mrs. Davis lived a life defined by faith, education, and public service. A woman of strong conviction and unwavering dedication, she worked tirelessly to uplift others and expand opportunities for future generations. Her leadership helped shape educational progress and community advancement throughout Carroll County and beyond.
Episcopal Church, Mrs. Davis devoted many years of service to her church family. She faithfully served as church secretary and trustee and was an engaged member of the Missionary Society and the Board of Christian Education. Her commitment to Christian service reflected her deep belief in faith as a guiding force for both personal and community transformation.
Mrs. Davis was also a pioneering leader in education. She made history as the first African American woman elected to serve on the Carroll County School Board, breaking barriers and opening doors for others to follow. Her dedication to improving educational outcomes and advocating for students and educators earned her statewide recognition when she became the first recipient from Carroll County to be named School Board Member of the Year for the State of Mississippi. Through her leadership, she championed equity, excellence, and opportunity in public education.
classroom. Mrs. Davis was a lifetime member of the Mississippi Association of Educators and remained actively engaged in organizations committed to civil rights, community development, and service. She was a proud member of the NAACP, the Carroll Development Association, and the Theta Pi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, where she exemplified scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood.
Although she is no longer with us, throughout her life, Mrs. Davis demonstrated a steadfast commitment to empowering others through education, civic engagement, and faith-based leadership. She served as a mentor, advocate, and role model whose influence continues to resonate across generations.
Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mrs. Laura Norwood Davis for her historic achievements, her faithful service, and her enduring contributions to the people of Carroll County and the State of Mississippi.