Carrie P. Meek, of Miami, transitioned this past weekend and her children Lucia Davis-Raiford, Sheila Davis Kinui, and retired Rep. Kendrick B. Meek of Florida provided a statement: “Carrie Meek was our family matriarch who fulfilled this role for the entire South Florida community. She was a bridge builder and healer, a unifier with a legacy defined by selfless public service. Forever the educator, the Congresswoman taught us all lessons about justice and morality. Her approach was rooted in kindness and humility.
“Carrie Meek made our society stronger and more equitable — an outcome that is an everlasting tribute to our beloved mother. She was guided by her faith, always inspired by the outpouring of love and community support. We humbly ask for your prayers at this time.
“Born in Tallahassee, she graduated from Florida A&M University in 1946 and was chosen to its Sports Hall of Fame. She earned a master’s degree at the University of Michigan in 1948 and later did graduate work at the University of Indiana and Florida Atlantic University.
A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she also was named an honorary member of Iota Phi Lambda Sorority. After a distinguished career in education, Carrie Meek was elected to the Florida House in 1979. She served there until 1982 when she became the first African American woman in the state Senate.
During her tenure, Meek sponsored legislation creating the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. A tireless advocate for gender and racial equality, Carrie Meek has received dozens of honors.
In 1992, Meek was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Florida’s 17th Congressional District. This made her the first Black lawmaker elected to represent Florida in Congress since Reconstruction.
She has received numerous awards and honors. She is the recipient of honorary doctor of laws degrees from the University of Miami, Florida A&M University, Barry University, Florida Atlantic University and Rollins University.
Meek is survived by her three children, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements are still pending.
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