2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26104656D

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 32

Offered February 3, 2026

Commending Frances Wade.

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Patron—Stanley

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WHEREAS, Frances Wade, an esteemed civil servant and former master chief deputy clerk of the Circuit Court of Henry County, retired on December 31, 2023; and

WHEREAS, Frances Wade joined the clerk's office of the Henry County Circuit Court in 1982 and held several positions over the next 41 years as she facilitated the court's operations and recordkeeping, including tasks such as documenting land records and issuing marriage licenses; and

WHEREAS, Frances Wade had extensive experience as a microfilm clerk, genealogist, and probate clerk and was a fount of knowledge for her colleagues at the Henry County Circuit Court clerk's office; and

WHEREAS, in recognition of her leadership, Frances Wade was appointed master chief deputy clerk by Jennifer Ashworth, clerk of the Henry County Circuit Court, on January 1, 2016; and

WHEREAS, Frances Wade played a vital role in helping to modernize the Henry County Circuit Court clerk's office by assisting with the digitization of microfilmed deeds; and

WHEREAS, beyond the Henry County Circuit Court, Frances Wade was appointed to serve as a records manager with the Library of Virginia to assist with the preservation of circuit court records; and

WHEREAS, Frances Wade's tireless efforts made a difference in the lives of countless people who have passed through the doors of the Henry County Circuit Court over the past four decades; and

WHEREAS, with the utmost professionalism, patience, and grace, Frances Wade embodied the ideals of civil service, earning the respect and admiration of all Virginians; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Frances Wade, master chief deputy clerk of the Circuit Court of Henry County, hereby be commended on the occasion of her retirement; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Frances Wade as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for her contributions to Henry County and the Commonwealth and best wishes for a joyful and fulfilling retirement.