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2012 SPECIAL SESSION I
WHEREAS, Harold Shipp Whitehurst, the first director of the City of Virginia Beach’s Parks and Recreation Department whose contributions to city parks and recreational activities continue to enrich the lives of residents today, died on April 13, 2012; and
WHEREAS, a native of Norfolk, Harold Whitehurst graduated from Maury High School, proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard, earned a bachelor’s degree from The College of William and Mary, and received a bachelor’s and master’s degree from East Carolina University, where he played baseball; and
WHEREAS, a fitness enthusiast, Harold Whitehurst began his career in the Princess Anne County school system, teaching physical education and inspiring youth to develop lifelong fitness habits; and
WHEREAS, Harold Whitehurst moved into administration, coordinating physical education efforts for Princess Anne County public schools until he joined the City of Virginia Beach as its director of Parks, Recreation, and Physical Education in 1960; and
WHEREAS, in 1974, Harold Whitehurst became Virginia Beach’s first director of Parks and Recreation, a position he held until his retirement in 1991; he also served as an instructor at Tidewater Community College and the University of Virginia; and
WHEREAS, as the population of Virginia Beach grew, Harold Whitehurst worked alongside city officials and other local leaders to ensure adequate facilities and recreational opportunities to enhance the lives of local residents; and
WHEREAS, an innovative leader, Harold Whitehurst oversaw the development of Mt. Trashmore, Red Wing and Bow Creek Golf Courses, Owl Creek Tennis Center, and Kempsville and Great Neck Recreation Centers; and
WHEREAS, Harold Whitehurst earned many awards and accolades for his many contributions to parks and recreation, including an honorary life membership in the National Congress of Parents and Teachers and recognition from the Boy Scouts of America, the Golden Olympics of Virginia, and the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation; and
WHEREAS, respected by his colleagues across the state, Harold Whitehurst served as president of the Virginia Association for Health, Physical Education, and Recreation and on the board of trustees of the Virginia Outdoors Foundation; and
WHEREAS, a man of deep faith, Harold Whitehurst took an active role in his church and served the community through his membership in the Virginia Beach Rotary Club; and
WHEREAS, residents of and visitors to Virginia Beach enjoy fine recreational facilities and activities and beautiful parks thanks to the vision and hard work of Harold Whitehurst; and
WHEREAS, a devoted family man, Harold Whitehurst leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife of over 55 years, Dorothy; children, Ellen and Diane, and their families; and numerous other family members, friends, and admirers; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of Virginia hereby note with great sadness the loss of an extraordinary citizen of Virginia Beach, Harold Shipp Whitehurst; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the family of Harold Shipp Whitehurst as an expression of the Senate of Virginia’s respect for his memory.