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2011 SESSION


HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 590
Celebrating the life of Donald J. Leonard.

 

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, January 14, 2011
Agreed to by the Senate, January 20, 2011

 

WHEREAS, Donald J. Leonard, a beloved citizen and supporter of Chincoteague, died on September 24, 2010; and

WHEREAS, Donald Leonard was born to loving parents Arthur and Olive Jester Leonard on the island of Chincoteague; the island’s pristine beaches and serene way of life drew him back after his service to his country in the United States Army during World War II; and

WHEREAS, Donald Leonard believed that Chincoteague’s natural beauty would appeal to all Virginians and those from farther away; he worked with great passion and enthusiasm throughout his life to let others know of Chincoteague; and

WHEREAS, a visionary man and practical entrepreneur, Donald Leonard saw the need for a larger motel to serve visitors on the island and built the Refuge Motor Inn; he also owned the Island Marina, a sea clamming operation, and Island Cruises; and

WHEREAS, Donald Leonard was especially fascinated by the wild ponies; he owned his first one at the age of 12 and for more than 40 years of his life maintained a small herd on his property; and

WHEREAS, Donald Leonard devoted himself to the well-being of his family and community; he served as a member of the Chincoteague Town Council and was a lifetime member of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, where he served for several years as chairman of the Pony Committee; and

WHEREAS, Donald Leonard also generously shared his time and talents as a member and president of the Kiwanis Club of Chincoteague; member of Masonic Lodge 243, American Legion Post #159, and the Accomack County School Board; and officer of the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce; and

WHEREAS, Donald Leonard’s enthusiastic commitment to his hometown inspired his fellow residents and helped the Town of Chincoteague become a popular destination for visitors who wish to enjoy unspoiled scenery and island charm; and

WHEREAS, a devoted family man, Donald Leonard will be greatly missed by his loving wife of 64 years, Martha Moore Leonard; four children, Carlton, Jane, Donna, and Arthur and their wonderful families; and numerous other family members, friends, and admirers; 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 a beloved resident and supporter of Chincoteague, Donald J. Leonard; 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 Donald J. Leonard as an expression of the General Assembly’s respect for his memory.