2025 SESSION

INTRODUCED

25101849D

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 471

Offered January 13, 2025

Prefiled January 13, 2025

Celebrating the life of Dorothy Southall.

—————

Patron—Glass

—————

WHEREAS, Dorothy Southall, a beloved resident of Norfolk who inspired others through her wisdom, kindness, and grace, died on October 9, 2024, at the age of 106; and

WHEREAS, born on September 5, 1918, Dorothy “Dottie” Southall grew up in the Whaleyville area of Suffolk; she witnessed countless historic events in her lifetime, from the Great Depression and World War II, to the Civil Rights Movement, the Moon landing, and the rise of modern technology; and

WHEREAS, at a young age, Dottie Southall and her father moved to Pennsylvania during the First Great Migration, when millions of Black southerners relocated to northern and western states seeking new and better opportunities for themselves and their families; and

WHEREAS, in 1959, Dottie Southall began working at Bellevue Hospital in New York City, where she proudly cared for patients as a licensed practical nurse for the next 20 years; and

WHEREAS, Dottie Southall returned to the Commonwealth in the 1980s and lived independently until the age of 103; she was a devoted aunt and friend who relished every opportunity to welcome people into her home for meals and celebrations; and

WHEREAS, Dottie Southall was a symbol of resilience for her family and friends and brought joy into their lives through her sense of humor, unwavering positivity, and countless life lessons; and

WHEREAS, Dottie Southall will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by her great-nieces Voncier Kelly and Remedeas Weekes, and their families, 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 Dorothy Southall, a cherished member of the Norfolk community; 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 Dorothy Southall as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for her memory.