2025 SESSION

INTRODUCED

25105293D

SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 346

Offered February 5, 2025

Celebrating the life of Ellis Whedon James.

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Patron—Williams Graves

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WHEREAS, Ellis Whedon James, an honorable veteran, accomplished insurance agent, devoted advocate for social justice, and beloved member of the Norfolk community, died on January 7, 2025; and

WHEREAS, born in Norfolk, Ellis James graduated from Matthew Fontaine Maury High School in 1955 before attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; and

WHEREAS, Ellis James served his country with honor and distinction as a member of the United States Army in Germany; and

WHEREAS, Ellis James had a successful career as an insurance agent, bringing countless individuals and families greater security and peace of mind; and

WHEREAS, Ellis James was a tireless advocate for justice and civil rights and served as a precinct captain with the Democratic Party; and

WHEREAS, Ellis James became president of Tidewater Fair Housing, Inc., in 1965 and worked indefatigably to eliminate discrimination in housing; and

WHEREAS, Ellis James was a member of the Sierra Club and supported local environmental stewardship through an appointment to the Norfolk Environmental Commission; and

WHEREAS, guided throughout his life by his faith, Ellis James enjoyed worship and fellowship with his community at Christ Lutheran Church in Norfolk, where he served as a deacon and sang in the choir; and

WHEREAS, Ellis James will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his numerous family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate, the House of Delegates concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of Ellis Whedon James, a treasured member of the Norfolk community whose integrity and dedication inspired all who knew him; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Ellis Whedon James as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.