My Condolences, To The Family Of Judge Odell Horton

Judge Odell Horton, the first Black U.S. District Court Judge, to be appointed in Tennessee since reconstruction. Passed away on yesterday, of respiratory failure. He leaves to mourn his passing his devoted wife of 52 years Evie, and two sons Odell Jr, and Christopher Horton. He also leaves two grandchildren.

Considering the fact, he had such a distinguished career. That spanned some 35 years. I was surprised that there wasn't more local media coverage, on his death. He was president of the local HBC, Lemoyen Owen College. He was the Director of Hospital and Health services, for the city of Memphis. He was once a practicing attorney, plus he held several judgeships. In addition to all that he was a local product, he was born and raised in Bolivar, Tennessee. Considering the fact that we're celebrating Black History month. His life and accomplishments, should be highlighted. He is a prime example, of what Blacks can achieve in America. Through diligence, commitment and hard work. He possessed something that every real man should strive for. This was witnessed by those, who he came in contact with. He was known to take the time in his court, to explain the legal phrases being used. He recognized the importance, of people having a clear understanding, of what was going on. He had the patience to try and make a difference.

Unfortunately Judge Horton, is a victim of the same mentality as Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. He doesn't think like everyone else, so somehow that dilutes his importance as a Judge. In the illogicical reasoning, of some narrow minded people. Furthermore I would be remiss not to mention, his careers most newsworthy case. He handled the 1990 bank fraud trial of Harold Ford Sr. and Jake Butcher. The trial he conducted, ended in a mistrial. Judge Horton later called the jury's conduct a "mockery" of the judicial process. I'm sure he was labeled an Uncle-Tom back then. The social attitudes of some Memphians, haven't changed much since then. I think this quote best describes his view, of how the law should work.

" May the Constitution of the United States go with you. May the Declaration Of Independence stand by you. May the Bill Of Rights protect you. And may your dreams be your only boundaries henceforth now and forever".