2026 SPECIAL SESSION I

INTRODUCED

26200374D

SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 2097

Offered October 27, 2026

Celebrating the life of Walter Samuel Crockett.

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Patron—Hackworth

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WHEREAS, Walter Samuel Crockett, a decorated veteran, public servant, and dedicated business leader in Wytheville who touched countless lives through his passion for service, died on July 30, 2026; and

WHEREAS, a native of Wytheville, Samuel “Sam” Crockett served the nation in uniform as a member of the United States Army's 1st Cavalry Division during the Vietnam War, earning the Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Service Medal; and

WHEREAS, Sam Crockett was part of the start-up team that helped launch Federal Express Corporation, now FedEx Corporation, then spent 10 years as an air traffic controller before returning to Wytheville in 1981; and

WHEREAS, in addition to working on the family farm with his late brother, Sonny, Sam Crockett owned and operated a retail clothing store in downtown Wytheville, first known as Country Closet, then Crockett's Cove Fashions; and

WHEREAS, desirous to be of further service, Sam Crockett ran for and was elected as treasurer of Wythe County and served the community in that capacity for 28 years, providing sound financial leadership and institutional knowledge for generations of local government officials; and

WHEREAS, Sam Crockett supported his fellow veterans as a member of American Legion Post 229 and served as a member of its honor guard; he also served as treasurer of the 9th District Republican Party and held several leadership positions with the Wytheville Lions Club, including president, earning the club's highest honor, the Melvin Jones Award; and

WHEREAS, Sam Crockett enjoyed fellowship and worship with the community as a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, where he served as a trustee and a member of the property committee; and

WHEREAS, Sam Crockett brought joy to others through his generosity, wit, and penchant for storytelling; he maintained close friendships with people throughout the Commonwealth and left an indelible mark on the Wytheville community through his legacy of personal contributions and professional achievements; and

WHEREAS, Sam Crockett will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by his wife of 39 years, Arlene; his children, James and Jessica, 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 Walter Samuel Crockett, a highly admired resident of Wytheville; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Walter Samuel Crockett as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's respect for his memory.