A life of service: Congressman John Lewis honored three years after his passing with a Forever stamp

On Friday afternoon, the U.S. Postal Service honored the late Congressman John Lewis with a Forever postage stamp. (Matthew Pearson/WABE)

Large crowds of people gathered at Morehouse College Friday as the U.S. Postal Service honored the late Congressman John Lewis with a Forever postage stamp.

The civil rights icon, who died three years ago this week due to complications of pancreatic cancer, dedicated his life to serving others.

On Friday’s special edition of “Closer Look,” show host Rose Scott talked with guests about the life and legacy of John Lewis and the significance of him being honored with a commemorative stamp.

First, Scott talked with WABE politics reporter Rahul Bali, who reported live from the stamp dedication ceremony at Morehouse College, about the spirit of the ceremony, explaining that the people who knew Lewis said he was a collector of Forever stamps.

Scott then talked with Tuere Butler, a longtime staffer for the congressman. Butler reflected on her 20 plus -year career journey, working side-by-side with him in constituent services and as a district director. During the conversation, Butler also expressed a sense of praise and pride that Lewis’ legacy lives on and that she hopes him being honored with a commemorative stamp encourages others to live impactful lives of service.

“People who are honored with this, they have made an impact on our society, on our country and in the world,” said Butler.

Lastly, we revisited past conversations with “Closer Look” guests. The guests shared their reflections about the life and legacy of the late American hero.