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2012 SESSION

12104684D
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 317
Offered February 3, 2012
Celebrating the life of Arkley Dillard Johnson, Jr.
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Patron—Wright; Senator: Ruff
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WHEREAS, Arkley Dillard Johnson, Jr., an admired member of the Blackstone community who faithfully served as a volunteer firefighter for 64 years, died on January 4, 2011; and

WHEREAS, Arkley Johnson joined the Blackstone Volunteer Fire Department in 1947 as a charter member and played a vital role in the community for more than six decades as he battled fires, responded to calls, and encouraged fire prevention efforts; and

WHEREAS, a trusted leader, Arkley Johnson served the Blackstone Volunteer Fire Department in various capacities over the years, including as treasurer, assistant fire chief, and fire chief; and

WHEREAS, Arkley Johnson also took a leadership role in the area firefighter community as the president of the Southside Virginia Volunteer Firefighters Association; and

WHEREAS, over the years, Arkley Johnson saw many changes to the Blackstone Volunteer Fire Department and helped train and mentor younger firefighters; and

WHEREAS, an admired community supporter, Arkley Johnson coached Little League baseball, served as an usher at Crenshaw United Methodist Church, and participated in other civic activities; and

WHEREAS, Arkley Johnson received numerous awards and accolades over the course of his career for his distinguished service; he was the 2000 recipient of the Blackstone Volunteer Fire Department Firefighter of the Year Award and a four-time recipient of the department’s Russell Anderson Award; and

WHEREAS, an active member of the Blackstone Volunteer Fire Department at the time of his death, Arkley Johnson served his fellow firefighters and the residents of Blackstone with great distinction and leaves behind many loving family members and friends; 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 dedicated firefighter, Arkley Dillard Johnson, Jr.; 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 Arkley Dillard Johnson, Jr., as an expression of the General Assembly’s respect for his memory.