2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26107601D

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 163

Offered February 23, 2026

Celebrating the life of George Franklin Atwell.

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Patrons—Martinez; Senator: Srinivasan

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WHEREAS, George Franklin Atwell, a devoted educator, public servant, and community leader and beloved member of the Milford community in Caroline County, died on January 17, 2026; and

WHEREAS, George Atwell was born and raised in Loudoun County, growing up in the community of Ryan on the dairy farm of his parents, Charles Franklin Atwell and Eunice Atwell; and

WHEREAS, George Atwell graduated from Leesburg High School and the University of Maryland before embarking on a distinguished career in public education with Loudoun County Public Schools; and

WHEREAS, during a 31-year career in education, George Atwell served Loudoun County with dedication and integrity as a teacher of mathematics and business at Loudoun County High School, principal of Hamilton Elementary School and Loudoun Valley High School, and assistant superintendent in charge of finance and support services before retiring in 1987; and

WHEREAS, following his retirement from public education, George Atwell continued his service to the community through his work with Leesburg Today and Loudoun Funeral Chapel and Crematory and through his service on the Leesburg Town Council for one and one-half terms; and

WHEREAS, George Atwell was a committed Rotarian for 58 years, serving Rotary International with distinction as district governor of District 8990 and traveling overseas to assist in efforts to inoculate children against polio, while also maintaining active membership in the Rotary Clubs of Leesburg, Leesburg Day Break, Caroline County, and Stafford; and

WHEREAS, George Atwell was cherished by those who knew him for his unwavering commitment to education, public service, civic leadership, and international humanitarian efforts, as well as for his kindness, integrity, and dedication to improving the lives of others; and

WHEREAS, George Atwell will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his loving wife of 69 years, Marian; his children, Dera and Amy, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby note with great sadness the loss of George Franklin Atwell, whose life of service made a lasting impact on the Commonwealth and its citizens; 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 George Franklin Atwell as an expression of the General Assembly's respect for his memory.