2026 SESSION

ENROLLED

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 81

Celebrating the life of Gardner Elliott Cobb, Jr.

Agreed to by the Senate, March 5, 2026

WHEREAS, Gardner Elliott Cobb, Jr., an honorable veteran, distinguished attorney, esteemed public servant, devoted husband, brother, father, and grandfather, and beloved member of the Franklin community, died on August 28, 2025; and

WHEREAS, a proud native of the City of Franklin, Elliott Cobb graduated from Franklin High School in 1956 before earning a bachelor's degree in commerce from the University of Virginia four years later; and

WHEREAS, after graduation, Elliott Cobb served his country with honor and distinction as a corporal in the United States Marine Corps; and

WHEREAS, following his service, Elliott Cobb earned a juris doctor degree from the University of Virginia Law School in 1966 and soon thereafter embarked upon his career as an attorney; and

WHEREAS, Elliott Cobb joined the paper company Union Camp Corporation in 1967 and rose through the ranks over the next decade to serve as the company's vice president, general counsel, and secretary; and

WHEREAS, Elliott Cobb returned to Franklin in 1978, became a partner in private practice, and demonstrated exceptional legal acumen and work ethic in his efforts to support his clients until his retirement in 2018; and

WHEREAS, from 1980 to 1988, Elliott Cobb served the Franklin community as a councilman, vice mayor, and mayor, contributing greatly to the locality's growth and prosperity while ensuring the well-being of its citizens; and

WHEREAS, Elliott Cobb will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by his loving wife, Betty; his children, Polly, Susan, and Gardner III, and their families; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of Virginia hereby note with great sadness the loss of Gardner Elliott Cobb, Jr., whose legacy of service, integrity, and love for family and community is an inspiration to 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 Gardner Elliott Cobb, Jr., as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's respect for his memory.