DALLAS — A constant crowd at the Hall of State in Fair Park was the scene of impact at Eddie Bernice Johnson's lie in state.
“She was a lady of grace and strength,” said Billy Allen, African American Museum's former Board Chair.
Johnson was a public servant and pioneer. Crowds joined at the Hall of State to honor her as she lie in state.
“She was the epitome of elegance and intelligence,” said Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett.
It's an appreciation for Congresswoman Johnson who served more than 30 years in Congress. She was also the first Black woman elected to public office in the City of Dallas.
“I know how hard she worked to make sure that African Americans in particular were able to benefit from the constitutional promise that we were free and equal citizens to everybody else,” said Allen.
Congresswoman Crockett now serves in Johnson’s former seat.
"Knowing that she hand-picked me and not being able to hear what critiques she has of me, it’s going to be different to just not have her around,” said Crockett.
It is a different feeling even for those who didn’t know Johnson personally but still felt connected to her.
“We stand on her shoulders for sure. As a nurse who paved the way and then served in the public domain and in Congress, I think that just pursuing the career of serving people and having someone who did it before for so long,” said Kate Kieser, a former constituent. “I was like so happy to tell people that I was represented by the oldest woman in Congress and the first Black nurse to be elected. I’m pursuing that career.”
That connection is why she brought her daughter, Arawen, to the lie in state.
“I think that it’s very cool how she went against the grain. You don’t see a lot of people doing that as committed as she was,” said Arawen Kieser. “It’s like making history. It’s cool that I don’t necessarily get to be a part of it, but I get to be a witness.”
For Arawen Kieser and many others, it was a grateful witness to a strong impact, might, and full of grace.
“That’s one of the things that she was really good about is making sure that opportunities come for those behind her,” said Congresswoman Crockett.
The funeral services for Congresswoman Johnson will take place Tuesday, January 9, at 10 a.m. at Concord Church, 6808 Pastor Bailey Drive Dallas, Texas 75237.