MEMORIAL RESOLUTION FOR BOARD MEETING OF JULY 16, 2026
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MEMORIAL RESOLUTION sponsored by the Board of Commissioners celebrating the life of Arnell A. Brady
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WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago joins in mourning the passing of Arnell A. Brady, M.A., CCC-SLP/L, noted speech-language pathologist, educator, mentor, entrepreneur, advocate, and community leader whose life's work transformed the lives of thousands; and
WHEREAS, for more than four decades Mr. Brady dedicated his career to advancing the field of speech-language pathology, providing compassionate, evidence-based care to children and adults with communication, cognitive, and swallowing disorders, while restoring dignity, confidence, and opportunity to individuals across Chicago; and
WHEREAS, in 1986, Mr. Brady founded Brady Speech-Language Pathology, establishing one of the nation's few Black-owned speech-language pathology practices and creating access to quality care for underserved communities; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Brady served as a founding member of the Chicagoland Autism Connection, where his leadership and vision helped sustain the organization, including through fundraising and the steadfast support of his Masonic brothers of Arcadia Palace Lodge #765. His distinguished career was recognized through his selection as a Fellow of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), one of the profession's highest honors; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Brady was a tireless advocate for cultural competence in healthcare, believing that communication is fundamental to human dignity and that every individual deserves equitable access to quality services. Mr. Brady enjoyed working with LGBT clients, particularly those who are transitioning and want to shift their voice to match their gender presentation; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Brady is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Dr. Patricia Alexander-Brady, their three children and partners, five grandchildren, and countless family members, colleagues, patients, and friends whose lives he touched throughout his career; and
WHEREAS, while Mr. Brady’s passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him, his legacy will endure through the countless families he served, the communities he strengthened, and the example of compassion, dignity, and leadership he provided throughout his life; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago hereby honors the life, legacy, and extraordinary service of Arnell A. Brady and expresses its deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, clients, and all who mourn his passing; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution be spread upon the permanent Record of Proceedings of the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and that a copy of same, suitably engrossed, be presented to the family of Arnell A. Brady.
Dated: July 16, 2026