WHEREAS, Willie Greenwood Barker, Jr., a successful businessman who made many contributions to the Danville community, died on March 26, 2018; and

WHEREAS, a proud member of the Virginia National Guard, Willie "Bill" Greenwood Barker, Jr., made his career in the tobacco industry and was well-known for his work ethic and effective leadership style; and

WHEREAS, Bill Barker served as president and chief executive officer of Dibrell Brothers, Inc., a prominent Danville business, and represented the company internationally in Brazil and Canada; and

WHEREAS, a former director of the board of American National Bank, Bill Barker also became co-owner of Piedmont Big Sale Warehouse and founded Cherokee Tobacco Company with his son, Jay; and

WHEREAS, after his well-earned retirement, Bill Barker and his wife, Sue, enjoyed golfing, boating, and spending time with friends in Vero Beach, Florida, but made frequent trips back to Danville to visit their beloved children and grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, predeceased by one son, Willie, Bill Barker will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 37 years, Sue; his children, Jay and Lori, and their families; and numerous other family members, friends, and colleagues; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Willie Greenwood Barker, Jr., a respected businessman in Danville; 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 Willie Greenwood Barker, Jr., as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for his memory.