WHEREAS, the City of Richmond honors individuals whose lives and legacies reflect lasting contributions through public service, caregiving, and dedication to community; and WHEREAS, Douglas Ellison, a lifelong Richmond resident, began his career with the Richmond P
olice D epartment in 1946 as the City’s second African American police officer and later becoming its first African American Police Sergeant in 1967, serving 27 years and breaking barriers for future generations; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Ellison also served with the BART Police Department, was a professional boxer, founding member of the Guardians of Justice (“Black Nine”), and a lifelong learner who earned
degrees from Contra Costa College, a Master’s in Public Administration, and a POST Supervisory Certificate; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Ellison passed away in 2006 following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, leaving a legacy that underscores the need for continued awareness and support for families affected by dementia; and
WHEREAS, Inez Watson, a Richmond resident since 1967, devoted her life to caregiving, becoming a licensed childcare provider in 1971 and supporting generations of local families with compassion and trust, earning recognition from the Contra Costa Teenage Parent Program in 1977; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Watson passed away at age 85 due to dementia; and, WHEREAS, the Watson Ellison Foundation, founded in 2021 by Anjanette Ellison, honor her grandparent's legacies by supporting families—particularly moderate-income households and communities of color—facing Alzheimer’s and dementia with limited resources.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Richmond City Council, on January 27, 2026, honors the lives and legacies of Douglas Ellison and Inez Watson for their extraordinary service to community and caregiving.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City of Richmond commends the Watson Ellison Foundation for its leadership, compassion, and commitment to equity for families impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
__________________________ __________________________
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
At Large
Soheila Bana,
Councilmember, District 4
Honoring the Legacy of Douglas Elison and Inez Watson in Recognition of Service, Caregiving and Alzhe imer’s & Dementia Awareness