Congressional remarks honor Lanier legacy
Family members of the late Edna Lanier gathered at Lanier Hardware Thursday for a brief ceremony accepting congressional remarks from Rep. Richard Hudson on Lanier and her lasting legacy.
On Hudson’s behalf, Chris Carter, district director for the congressman, presented Lanier’s children Gail Lanier and Ann Easter with a copy of the remarks read by Hudson on the House floor May 13.
“By all accounts, Mrs. Lanier was the embodiment of what a North Carolinian should be,” the remarks read. “She was devoted to her family and friends, kind to every person she met, and passionate about making her community a better place for all to live.”
The remarks were entered into the Congressional record and will be forever held in the Library of Congress.
“For me personally, it’s always been an honor to be a part of this family. It’s a family that has given so much to the community,” said Lanier’s grandson and Lexington mayor Newell Clark. “It’s amazing to have her nation recognize her and the work that she gave to the community.”
Lanier, wife of Ardell Lanier and co-founder of Lanier’s Hardware, died April 17, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, caring and philanthropy that is nearly unprecedented. Her husband passed away in March 2014.
Lanier graduated from Churchland School in 1934 and obtained her business degree from Draughon’s Business College in Winston-Salem. The couple opened Lanier Hardware together in 1940 and worked as businesses owners and community activists the rest of their lives.
In his statement, Hudson applauded Lanier’s commitment to her faith and constant mentoring of young women in the community.
“Throughout her life, Mrs. Lanier had a giving-spirit and wanted to share her knowledge and experiences with those around her,” Hudson said. “Mr. Speaker, please join me today in remembering the life of Edna Lanier and celebrating her legacy that benefited so many in the town of Lexington, and the state of North Carolina.”