Bill Text: VA HJR590 | 2011 | Regular Session | Enrolled
Bill Title: Celebrating the life of Donald J. Leonard.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2011-01-21 - House: Bill text as passed House and Senate (HJ590ER) [HJR590 Detail]
Download: Virginia-2011-HJR590-Enrolled.html
WHEREAS, Donald J. Leonard, a beloved citizen and supporter of Chincoteague, died on September 24, 2010; and WHEREAS, Donald Leonard was born to loving parents Arthur and Olive Jester Leonard on the island of Chincoteague; the island's pristine beaches and serene way of life drew him back after his service to his country in the United States Army during World War II; and WHEREAS, Donald Leonard believed that Chincoteague's natural beauty would appeal to all Virginians and those from farther away; he worked with great passion and enthusiasm throughout his life to let others know of Chincoteague; and WHEREAS, a visionary man and practical entrepreneur, Donald Leonard saw the need for a larger motel to serve visitors on the island and built the Refuge Motor Inn; he also owned the Island Marina, a sea clamming operation, and Island Cruises; and WHEREAS, Donald Leonard was especially fascinated by the wild ponies; he owned his first one at the age of 12 and for more than 40 years of his life maintained a small herd on his property; and WHEREAS, Donald Leonard devoted himself to the well-being of his family and community; he served as a member of the Chincoteague Town Council and was a lifetime member of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, where he served for several years as chairman of the Pony Committee; and WHEREAS, Donald Leonard also generously shared his time and talents as a member and president of the Kiwanis Club of Chincoteague; member of Masonic Lodge 243, American Legion Post #159, and the Accomack County School Board; and officer of the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce; and WHEREAS, Donald Leonard's enthusiastic commitment to his hometown inspired his fellow residents and helped the Town of Chincoteague become a popular destination for visitors who wish to enjoy unspoiled scenery and island charm; and WHEREAS, a devoted family man, Donald Leonard will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 64 years, Martha Moore Leonard; four children, Carlton, Jane, Donna, and Arthur and their wonderful families; and numerous other family members, friends, and admirers; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of a beloved resident and supporter of Chincoteague, Donald J. Leonard; and, be it RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Donald J. Leonard as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory. |