2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26107241D

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 83

Offered March 3, 2026

Commending Bishop C. Vernie Russell, Jr., and Pastor Ronda H. Russell.

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Patron—Williams Graves (By Request)

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WHEREAS, Bishop C. Vernie Russell, Jr., and Pastor Ronda H. Russell have served and inspired countless individuals throughout the Hampton Roads region through their dedication to faith and community leadership; and

WHEREAS, Bishop and Pastor Russell have faithfully served several congregations in the Commonwealth, including New Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Norfolk and Union Baptist Missionary Church in Suffolk, where their leadership has strengthened families, uplifted communities, and expanded ministries that serve people of all ages; and

WHEREAS, Bishop Russell is widely respected as a visionary pastor, author, and mentor whose ministry has inspired countless individuals and churches across the nation and around the world, while Pastor Russell has faithfully led, taught, and nurtured others through her work in ministry, women's leadership, and spiritual development; and

WHEREAS, Bishop and Pastor Russell have exemplified unwavering love, faith, and commitment to one another, building a marriage rooted in Christian devotion, mutual respect, and shared purpose; they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on December 27, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Bishop and Pastor Russell's partnership in marriage has been a cornerstone of their shared ministry, demonstrating the power of unity, service, and faith, and serving as a model of enduring love to their family, congregations, and the broader community; and

WHEREAS, Bishop and Pastor Russell are the proud parents of three children and the loving grandparents of twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, leaving a legacy of faith and service that spans generations; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That Bishop C. Vernie Russell, Jr., and Pastor Ronda H. Russell hereby be commended for their legacy of service as faith leaders in the Hampton Roads region; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Bishop C. Vernie Russell, Jr., and Pastor Ronda H. Russell as an expression of their longstanding commitment to servant leadership.