Laura Perkins Cox
I met Cleo Holden in 2006 when I was representing District 2 on the Garland City Council. Downtown Garland is part of D2, and Cleo was deeply involved in historical preservation of downtown.Cleo was a deep font of knowledge and wisdom for me, a new council member. Her passion for downtown was contagious and infectious, which sustained momentum and ensured funding despite competing short-term municipal funding needs.I will never forget her vivid testimony of magical memories she made while visiting the square on Market Days with her grandfather so long ago. (I admit I have still never tried a stick of hoarhound candy.) Her ability to talk about the need to preserve history in human, not academic, terms galvanized momentum to cherish and invest in Downtown Garland, and ensured momentum for that effort did not dissipate. Cleo will not be forgotten as long as a little girl can come downtown with her grandfather, have adventures, and finish off the day with a sweet treat.We send our deepest condolences to her family, friends and loved ones. We know that we shall meet again.