WHEREAS, Ryan Keith Cox, a highly admired employee of the Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities, died on May 31, 2019; and

WHEREAS, Keith Cox graduated from Princess Anne High School and earned a bachelor's degree from Saint Leo University; and

WHEREAS, Keith Cox began his more than 12-year career with the Virginia Beach Department of Public Utilities as a customer service provider in the call center, then became an accounting clerk; and

WHEREAS, Keith Cox was well-known for his infectious smile, and he brought joy to his colleagues with his kindness, generosity, and positivity; and

WHEREAS, Keith Cox enjoyed fellowship and worship with the community as a member of New Hope Baptist Church; he shared his faith with others as a member of the male chorus and participated in several other church ministries; and

WHEREAS, Keith Cox made the ultimate sacrifice while courageously protecting his colleagues during a mass shooting at the Virginia Beach Municipal Center on May 31, 2019; and

WHEREAS, Keith Cox will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his parents, Ray and Maxine; his brothers, Tony and Ervin; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Ryan Keith Cox, a vibrant member of the Virginia Beach community and a dedicated civil servant; 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 Ryan Keith Cox as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for his memory.