2026 SPECIAL SESSION I

ENROLLED

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2196

Celebrating the life of Hattie Marie Askew Williams.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, June 29, 2026

WHEREAS, Hattie Marie Askew Williams, a vibrant member of the Portsmouth community who inspired others through her kindness, grace, and joyful faith, died on June 1, 2026; and

WHEREAS, born in Portsmouth to the late Robert and Lena Askew, Hattie Williams attended local public schools, graduated from Churchland High School, and pursued higher education at Norfolk State University; and

WHEREAS, Hattie Williams began her career at the Scott Annex Center in Portsmouth, then served as an assistant buyer for the United States Navy, earning many awards and accolades for her performance over the course of 30 years; and

WHEREAS, a woman of deep and abiding faith, Hattie Williams was a lifelong member of New First Baptist Church (Taylorsville), and she upheld a longstanding family tradition of church leadership through her involvement in numerous ministries; and

WHEREAS, in addition to leading the deaconess ministry, Hattie Williams had supported the music ministry, women's ministry, and youth and young adult ministries over the years; she was a former Women's Day chair, taught new member classes, and organized vacation Bible school registration, among other duties; and

WHEREAS, Hattie Williams sang in multiple church choirs and traveled across the region to share her passion for song with other congregations; she was well known for her ability to elevate any family event or social gathering through her joyous singing; and

WHEREAS, predeceased by one son, Micheal, Hattie Williams will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by her loving and devoted husband of 35 years, Leslie; her daughter, Brittany; her bonus daughter, Tanisha; and numerous other family members and friends; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the House of Delegates hereby note with great sadness the loss of Hattie Marie Askew Williams; 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 Hattie Marie Askew Williams as an expression of the House of Delegates' respect for her memory.