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Proclamation <br />HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MR. JOE IDLETTE, JR. <br />Whereas, the Board of County Commissioners of Indian River County proudly recognizes the life and <br />legacy of Mr. Joe Idlette, Jr., a true pioneer, civil rights advocate, and lifelong resident of Gifford whose courage <br />and determination helped shape the history of Indian River County; and <br />-Whereas, born the great-grandson of enslaved people and son of a Georgia sharecropper, Mr. Idlette <br />lived a life rooted in faith, family, and the pursuit of justice, inspiring generations through his integrity, humility, <br />and service; and <br />-Whereas, after serving his country in the Korean War, Mr. Idlette returned home and led a courageous <br />fight to end segregation in Indian River County schools, resulting in the peaceful desegregation of public schools <br />in 1969, a defining moment in local history; and <br />-Whereas, his leadership continued as the first African American elected to the Indian River County <br />School Board, where he served twenty years advocating for educational equity, opportunity, and unity within the <br />community; and <br />Whereas, in recognition of his family's deep roots and enduring contributions, Vero Heritage, Inc. <br />honored the Idlette family as the first African American recipients of the Pioneer Family Award, celebrating their <br />hard work, faith, and community spirit; and <br />-Whereas, Mr. Idlette's steadfast dedication, guided by his faith at Mount Zion A.M.E. Church, and his <br />devotion to his wife Bernice and their family, leaves an enduring legacy of courage, compassion, and progress <br />for future generations. <br />Now, 'Pherefore, be it Proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Indian <br />River County, FCorida, that we do hereby honor and celebrate the life, leadership, and legacy of Mr. Joe <br />Idlette, Jr., whose vision and perseverance continue to inspire a stronger, more unified community. <br />Adopted this 18th day of November 2025. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS <br />INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, FLORIDA <br />Joseph E. Flescher, Chairman <br />Deryl Loar, Vice Chairman <br />Joseph H. Earman <br />Susan Adams <br />Laura Moss <br />